Challenges in Diesel Reforming: Comparison of Different Reforming Technologies

Abstract

The reforming of short-chained hydrocarbons up to gasoline is a well-engineered process. Reforming Diesel fuel is more difficult due to the multiplicity of long-chained hydrocarbons and different components. However, the automotive market segment for Diesel vehicles is very promising for applications like auxiliary power units. Due to decreasing sulfur contents in Diesel fuels, the usage of catalytic reforming processes becomes more feasible. Commonly favored gas process technologies are the steam or autothermal reforming processes. Applications with PEM fuel cells require a complex gas cleanup system. Hence the overall size of this system tends to be rather big. Applying an autothermal reforming process is almost state of the art, although the influence of fuel composition and additization is not well described.

Biodiesel reforming with a NiAl2O4/Al2O3-YSZ catalyst for the production of renewable SOFC fuel

“…In the experimental studies, only noble metal catalysts were tested. Transition metals (noble and non-noble) are the most catalytically active in hydrocarbon reforming, and noble metals are known to be more resistant but also more expensive [5,6].…”

Steam reforming of liquid hydrocarbons over a nickel–alumina spinel catalyst

“…Noble and non-noble metals are employed, with the first one being usually more resistant but more expensive [1,5].…”