Microwave-enhanced methane combined reforming by CO2 and H2O into syngas production on biomass-derived char

Abstract Methane reforming by CO 2 and H 2 O is performed in this study, using the char derived from biomass as catalyst. The catalytic effect of bio-char on CH 4 reforming is examined by changing feed composition, reforming temperature and heating method. At an appropriate H 2 O/CO 2 ratio, combined reforming achieves higher CH 4 conversion at the same temperature than dry reforming, and it also brings about an increase in the H 2 /CO ratio of syngas production. The results indicates that synergetic reaction of CH 4 –H 2 O and CH 4 –CO 2 can be reached in combined reforming at the temperature of 800–1000 °C. Microwave heating presents a promising method to enhance the reforming reaction. Bio-char exhibits better performance for combined reforming, because it optimizes the competition between carbon deposition and carbon consumption. This is evidenced by less equivalent carbon consumption and the slower deterioration of porous properties. Carbon deposition and carbon consumption from the catalyst contribute to the deactivation of bio-char.