Reforming of CH 4 and CO 2 by Combination of Alternating Current-Driven Nonthermal Arc Plasma and Catalyst

An experimental plasma reforming reactor for conversion of CH 4 –CO 2 to synthesis gas (syngas) has been developed, in which the plasma is generated by a nonthermal arc plasma torch with simple and compact structure. The effects of total flux of feed gases and the molar ratio of CH 4 /CO 2 on syngas production, selectivities of H 2 and CO, and energy conversion efficiency were investigated. It is proven that this kind of plasma is an effective way to reforming of CO 2 –CH 4 with energy conversion efficiency of 5.25 mmol/kJ and energy efficiency of 81%. Moreover, the heat generated by the plasma can be fully utilized to activate catalyst.