Unmixed Reforming: A Novel Autothermal Cyclic Steam Reforming Process

Unmixed Reforming, or UMR, is a novel autothermal cyclic steam reforming process for converting hydrocarbons to hydrogen. The process operates in a three-step cycle that involves heating the reactor, reducing the catalyst to the metallic state, and finally steam reforming. UMR is being developed mainly for small-scale generation of hydrogen where it can economically compete with conventional steam reforming. UMR produces synthesis gas with higher concentrations of hydrogen and lower concentrations of carbon oxides when compared with conventional steam reforming. In addition, the process is more robust than conventional steam reforming, as it can readily be used with feed stocks containing heavy hydrocarbons and sulfur. These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.