Steam Reforming of Hydrocarbons and Water Gas Shift Reaction Through a Wall of Stabilized Zirconia Used as Hydrogen Separator

Abstract

Abstract Steam reforming of CH4 and C2H4 or water gas shift reaction was allowed to occur through a wall of stabilized zirconia acting as hydrogen separator. The reactions proceed via transport of oxygen ions in the zirconia lattice from cathode to anode of the wall, accompanying an electron transfer in the reverse direction through the outer lead wire. Hydrogen without CO2, CO, or hydrocarbons can be obtained directly by each reaction at the cathode side. The rate of hydrogen production increases exponentially with a rise in applied potentials via chromel-constantan thermocouples. The presence of reducing gas such as CO, CH4, or H2 at the anode side will decrease considerably the applied potential required to produce hydrogen at the same rate. A tentative reaction mechanism is proposed on the basis of kinetic information of the reaction.