Assessment of fuel processing alternatives for fuel cell power generation. Final report

Abstract

The hydrogen fuel-cell power plant is expected to become a commercial reality in the near future. The fuel processor which converts hydrocarbon feedstocks to hydrogen is an integral part of this system. Fuel-cell power systems presently being developed are capable of utilizing methane through light naphthas for this purpose; however, a reasonable fuel-cell market will require the use of a number of fuels, ranging from synthesis gas to distillate oils. In this context, No. 2 fuel oil is of particular interest. The present study focuses on hydrogen production technologies for dispersed fuel-cell power stations, using a No. 2 fuel-oil feedstock. The primary objective is to provide a perspective for the feasibility of efficiently converting this feed to hydrogen in a fuel processor which is integrated with the dispersed power station. The approach involved a comprehensive review and analysis of existing, emerging, and conceptual hydrogen production technologies. Of the processes considered, high-temperature steam reforming (both fixed and fluidized catalytic beds) and autothermal reforming are the more promising fuel-processing alternatives. They are expected to convert No. 2 fuel oil to hydrogen with minimal problems from carbon deposition and sulfur poisoning, and to have high thermal efficiencies because of the low steam-to-carbon ratiosmore » required for their operation. Specific recommendations are outlined to further study the more promising fuel-processing approaches and thereby to identify the most effective means for integrating them with a dispersed fuel-cell plant.« less

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