Low pressure steam purged chemical reactor including an oxygen transport membrane

摘要

Methane is formed into synthesis gas through a combination of a partial oxidation reaction and a steam reforming reaction. Oxygen for the partial oxidation reaction is obtained by contacting air with an oxygen transport membrane and recovering the oxygen transported through the membrane. To increase the oxygen flux through the membrane, steam is utilized as a sweep gas on the anode side of the membrane. The steam reduces the oxygen partial pressure on the anode side increasing the flux. The efficiency and cost benefit of the process is enhanced by utilizing in-line combustors to heat gases being delivered to the oxygen transport membrane. Membrane integrity is enhanced by conducting the reactions in a reactor that is remote from the oxygen transport membrane.