Design and test results of a receiver-reactor for solar methane reforming

Abstract

The paper reports on results of the first test series with a volumetric receiver-reactor (SCR), performing solar CO{sub 2}-reforming of methane in a closed thermochemical loop. Between August 1994 and May 1995 the receiver was operated in the closed loop system at the solar tower facility of Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel, in series with a methanator to release the stored energy. During these tests the receiver design data were successfully demonstrated. Methane conversion levels were up to 84% of the content in the methanator exit. Methane contents in the receiver exit went down to 2%. The absorbed power peaked at 286 kW, with a receiver operating pressure of about 3.5 bar{sub abs}. During the tests some problems occurred with the window due to deposits. After the replacement of a window tests were continued without further problems. A second test period is foreseen for late 1995 with an improved absorber insert.