Dynamic Modeling of Integrated Mixed Reforming and Carbonless Heat Systems

In the previous study, a dynamic and two-dimensional model for a steam methane reforming process integrated with nuclear heat production was developed. It was shown that the integrated high temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR)/steam methane reforming (SMR) is an efficient process for applications such as hydrogen production. In this study, it is demonstrated that combining nuclear heat with the mix of steam and dry reforming process can be a promising option to achieve certain desired H2/CO ratios for Fischer–Tropsch or other downstream energy conversion processes. The model developed in the previous study is extended to the combined steam and dry reforming process. The resulting model was validated using reported experimental data at nonequilibrium and equilibrium conditions. The dynamic and steady state performance of the integrated mixed reforming of methane and nuclear heat system was studied, and it was found that in addition to desired H2/CO ratios, higher methane conversion and lower CO2 emissions can be achieved using the proposed design compared to the HTGR/SMR system.