摘要 |
A compact catalytic reactor ( 20 ) for reforming comprises a reactor module ( 70 ) to define a multiplicity of first and second flow channels arranged alternately, for carrying first and second gas flows, and a removable gas-permeable catalyst structure ( 80 ) with a substrate for example of metal foil is provided in each flow channel in which a chemical reaction is to occur. The reactor is for use with a first gas flow whose pressure is above ambient pressure and is no less than that of the second gas flow. The reactor module ( 70 ) may be formed of a stack of plates ( 72, 74, 75 ). The module ( 70 ) is enclosed within a pressure vessel ( 90 ), the pressure within the pressure vessel being arranged to be at a pressure substantially that of the first gas flow. Consequently no parts of the module ( 70 ) are under tension. This simplifies the design of the reactor module, and increases the proportion of its volume occupied by the catalyst. |