E-Field Enhanced Thermo-Catalytic Decomposition (TCD) of Methane
Design Engineering 2025 Graduate ExhibitionPresentation by James Heim
Exhibition Number 607
Abstract
Thermo-catalytic decomposition (TCD) of methane, an alternative energy technology that produces turquoise hydrogen, is envisioned as a bridge to the hydrogen economy. For both TCD and the associated regeneration reactions, the application of an electric field (E-field) offers the potential to maintain and increase the reaction rate, either through an increase in the number or type of active sites or a shift in their energy levels. Complementary capacitive and resistive configurations are utilized to collect kinetic data via FTIR, and active site measurements of deposited carbon are performed by TPD or XPS. Catalyst deactivation due to carbon deposition covering active sites has prevented TCD from becoming a commercially viable option for hydrogen production. However, the application of an E-field facilitates non-planar dendritic carbon growth, increasing surface area and active site availability, as confirmed by SEM/TEM. Compared to standard TCD, E-field TCD reduces activation energy by 56% and achieves higher hydrogen conversion rates at lower temperatures. Notably, a hydrogen conversion of 65% was achieved with 75% SNG at 1050 °C. The E-field promotes free-space conversion that does not clog the reactor and can be cleaned by mechanical means. Raman analysis of graphite as a model carbon indicates that Joule-based gasification by CO2 results in a more disordered carbon structure compared to conventional thermal gasification at 1000 °C, suggesting enhanced active site formation. These findings demonstrate that the application of an E-field improves TCD efficiency and catalyst longevity, contributing to the viability of TCD for sustainable hydrogen production.
Importance
Thermo-catalytic decomposition (TCD) of methane offers a sustainable pathway for hydrogen production, a key component in the transition to cleaner energy sources. By improving the efficiency of TCD with an electric field, this research has the potential to provide an alternative to traditional steam methane reforming, which is energy-intensive and emits significant amounts of CO2. Clean hydrogen production through TCD could support industries such as transportation, power generation, and manufacturing, helping to reduce global carbon emissions. As demand for hydrogen grows, this method could play a critical role in advancing the hydrogen economy, contributing to long-term environmental sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.