Title : Advanced power electronics driving plasma-based methane pyrolysis
Abstract:
The chemical industry faces significant challenges with energy consumption and carbon emissions, particularly in gray hydrogen production via steam-methane reforming. Plasma-based reactors offer a promising solution for electrifying and decarbonizing chemical production. These reactors utilize non-equilibrium plasma to enhance chemical reactions, enabling more efficient processes compared to traditional methods. Plasma torches offer power densities comparable to fossil-based burners and can reach temperatures exceeding 1’000°C.
A notable application is the use of a DC-arc plasma-based reactor for producing turquoise hydrogen and carbon black through methane pyrolysis. This method stands out due to 1) its lower electricity requirements compared to green hydrogen generated from water electrolysis and 2) avoiding the carbon emissions of steam-methane reforming. Methane pyrolysis decomposes methane (CH4) in an oxygen-free environment into hydrogen gas and carbon black, using green electricity. The resulting carbon allotropes, highly pure carbon black, can be tailored by adjusting the operating parameters of the plasma torches, adding value to the process.
This presentation focuses on the use of advanced power supplies, on the example of DC-arc plasma reactors for methane pyrolysis. The integration of advanced power electronics enhances efficiency and sustainability in plasma operations. Additionally, these systems reduce space and weight requirements, making them advantageous for industrial applications.
