Combination of thermodynamic analysis and regression analysis for steam and dry methane reforming

Abstract Hydrogen is predominantly produced via methane reforming. In this study, thermodynamic analysis and regression analysis of the steam reforming of methane (SRM) as well as dry methane reforming (DRM) are conducted. The method of Gibbs free energy minimization is applied for investigating the effect of factors, such as temperature, pressure, and inlet composition, on the performance of hydrogen production. Notably, this study is not restricted to the effect of a single factor, but to the combined results of all independent variables. Then, regression analysis is adopted for examining the quantitative relationship between response observed and conditions. As a result, different mathematical expressions are attempted, such as linear regression, second-order polynomial, and logarithmic form, for finding the optimal form to preferably illustrate the manner in which factors affect performance. In this process, the forms are compared in several ways from the perspective of not only regression parameters but also error bars on graphs curve images. Finally, a three-pieces-logarithmic model is proposed as the final form to explain the relation between factors and response with maximum error 7% and the most deviations range between 0% and 2%.