Production of hydrogen by high temperature conversion of hydrocarbons in the presence of water or oxygen

摘要

Hydrocarbon and water are supplied to the anode (2) in a solid fuel cell (1), whilst oxygen is supplied to the cathode (3) to form synthesis gas. Carbon monoxide is converted into carbon dioxide, leaving a hydrogen-rich flow of gas with a low water vapor content. A method for preparing a hydrogen-rich gas stream (B) comprises the conversion of a hydrocarbon fuel in the presence of water and/or oxygen at high temperature. The reaction is carried out in a fuel cell (1), the hydrocarbon and water being supplied to the anode (2) and the oxygen-containing gas (A) to the cathode (3). Synthesis gas comprising carbon monoxide and hydrogen is supplied to the anode side and the resulting gas is oxidized by providing the heat (and optionally electricity) necessary for the fuel conversion. Under these reaction conditions carbon monoxide and water are formed, the carbon monoxide being converted into carbon dioxide whilst yielding hydrogen. A flow of hydrogen-rich gas with a low water vapor content is removed from the anode.