A multi-function compact micro-channel reactor coated with sulphur tolerant catalyst for LPG steam reforming

Hydrogen fuelled polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFC) offer clear environmental benefits. Lack of viable hydrogen infrastructure in the near future means that a key issue is availability of hydrogen at the point of use. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) offers advantages as a fuel over other hydrocarbons because there is already an infrastructure in place for remote areas. Hydrogen supply via steam reforming of LPG is therefore a feasible avenue of achieving the environmental benefits. Commercial grade LPG unavoidably contain sulphur as an odorant, the sulphur needs to be removed from the fuel stream before it reaches the reformer catalyst and fuel cell. Utilizing sulphur tolerant catalysts in the reformer leads to a simpler fuel processor design. Thermal management and reforming efficiency has been a challenge for the sulphur tolerant catalysts. In this paper, a multi-function compact micro-channel reactor designed for hydrocarbon steam reforming was evaluated for use with LPG. A sulphur tolerant catalyst was wash-coated on to the reforming layers. The reformer was tested over a wide range of reactor temperatures, steam to carbon ratios and fuel flow rates. Over 60% of H2 composition can be achieved at high reforming temperatures with a LPG supply rate of 0.75 dm3 min−1 (STP) and a S/C ratio of 4.