Effect of energy transport on a palladium-based membrane reactor for methane steam reforming process

Energy transport in a Pd-based membrane reactor (MR) was analysed for an annular and a tubular configuration with a one-dimensional mathematical model. This model takes into account also the energy transfer associated to the hydrogen permeation through a Pd-based membrane. The heat required by the reaction that takes place in a tubular MR is distributed in a larger reactor length when compared to the annular MR; therefore, the heat fluxes from the oven to the reaction side is lower in a tubular MR. Outlet MR conversion is an increasing function of the temperature, sweep factor and overall heat transfer coefficient. An annular MR at 600oC reaches the maximum conversion at a reactor length lower than 1 cm. A much higher reactor length of a tubular MR is necessary to achieve the same conversion. An annular MR presents a better thermal performance and a higher conversion at a reactor length characteristic of a lab scale MR, and also its reaction path is nearer to the optimal behaviour.