Techno-economic analysis and experimental pre-study of hydrogen production with improved catalytic process

Background

The conventional methods of hydrogen production, such as steam methane reforming (SMR) and water electrolysis, have their limitations in terms of cost, energy efficiency, and primarily their environmental impact. SMR, for instance, is carbon-intensive, while electrolysis requires significant energy input, usually derived from non-renewable sources. Therefore, there is a strong need for new and improved catalytic processes that can produce hydrogen more efficiently, at a lower cost, and with fewer environmental consequences.

Recent research into advanced catalytic materials such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), nanoparticles, or bio-inspired catalysts has shown promise in improving hydrogen production. This project explores improved catalytic process design that would allow almost complete carbon capture and thus environmental and potentially economical imprudent of the hydrogen production process.

Aim of the project

The aim of the thesis project is to conduct a techno-economic analysis of the proposed approach for hydrogen production in comparison to existing and industry-standard solutions. Experimental pre-study of the process will include designing and implementing an experimental campaign on the Small Pyrolysis Setup (SPS), with the objective of mapping the pyrolysis effect and hydrogen conversion rates for different operating conditions. The project work will also include a feasibility study on the economic effect of using the proposed process and its benefits in carbon capturing.

The specific objectives of this thesis are

To perform a literature review on the hydrogen production solutions and current trends.
To familiarize with the SPS and previous developments and the gas mixing station, gas analysis instrumentation and gas chromatograph.
To prepare an experimental plan for material testing with the goal of reaching the pyrolysis inception conditions for different methane fuel qualities.
To run experiments, collect and interpret data, and report this information.
To perform a feasibility study on the economic effect on carbon capturing and techno-economic analysis of the entire proposed process.
To work together with researchers at HPT to validate the measurement system of the SPS test rig.