Modelling of a reverse-flow partial oxidation reactor for synthesis gas production from gasifier product gas

Abstract

Biomass gasification followed by fuel synthesis is one of the alternatives for producing liquid fuels and chemicals from biomass feedstocks. The gas produced by gasification contains CO, H2, H2O, CO2, light hydrocarbons and tars. The light hydrocarbons can account for as much as 50% of the total energy content of the gas, depending on the type of gasifier, operating conditions and feedstock. The gas also contains catalyst poisons such as sulphur, in the form of H2S and COS. This paper presents simulations of a reverse-flow partial-oxidation reformer that converts the light hydrocarbons into more synthesis gas, while achieving efficiencies approaching that of conventional catalytic processes. Variations in parameters such as pressure, amount of oxidant and steam-to-carbon ratio were also investigated. Simulations of the reforming of natural gas were included for comparison. The results show the benefits of using reverse-flow operation with lean gases such as gasifier product gas.