Project

Electrification of thermocatalytic decomposition of methane using computational fluid dynamics

Code
1127025N
Duration
01 November 2024 → 31 October 2028
Funding
Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO)
Research disciplines
  • Engineering and technology
    • Reacting systems
    • Modelling, simulation and optimisation
    • Intensification
    • Powder and particle technology
    • (Multiphase) flow
Keywords
Electrification CFD-DEM-MGM Thermocatalytic decomposition of methane
 
Project description

This project aims to bridge a critical gap in modeling fluidized bed reactors used in heterogeneous catalyzed processes by introducing a novel reactive Euler-Lagrange (CFD-DEM) framework. The main objective is to propel clean hydrogen production by addressing challenges in methane thermocatalytic decomposition (TCD). By integrating TCD with electrification in electrified-fluidized bed reactors (e-Beds), the project aims to advance zero-emission hydrogen production, promoting sustainability in the chemical industry by reducing reliance on fossil fuel combustion. The project's core methodology involves incorporating electrification models, resolving Maxwell's equations within CFD cells, and integrating them with models addressing the Joule effect within the Discrete Element Method (DEM) to accurately compute individual particle heating rates. Furthermore, to meet industry demands for zero-emission hydrogen, the project will tackle fundamental challenges like catalyst deactivation due to carbon deposition by integrating the framework with the Multi-grain model. Additionally, complex catalyst particle behaviors, including attrition, will be addressed using the Particle-bonded model. This project focuses on implementing adaptable models across various catalytic processes, including steam methane reforming, beyond TCD. The main focus remains on promoting hydrogen production through electrification while advancing computational methodologies to mitigate emissions effectively.