Transport in a Methanol Steam Reformer as the Fuel Processor for Fuel Cell Systems

Abstract

An experimental and analytical study of the reacting flow in a catalytic reactor is presented. Methanol-steam reforming may be utilized in the fuel processing system for hydrogen fuel cells. Understanding the flow and transport phenomena as well as the reaction mechanisms is essential for improving the efficiency of the reforming process as well as the quality of the processed fuel. Utilizing the results obtained, optimized conditions for fuel processing are discussed.