Electron Beam Plasma Methane Pyrolysis
Methane pyrolysis in electron beam plasma is a hydrogen production route from natural gas without direct CO2 emissions. This thermal decomposition reaction forms hydrogen and solid carbons in the absence of water and oxygen. Methane pyrolysis has energetic advantages compared to state-of-the-art hydrogen production via steam methane reforming (SMR). The specific energy demand per mole of hydrogen for methane pyrolysis (37.4 kJ/mol H2) is considerably lower than for SMR (63.2 kJ/mol H2). In addition, valuable solid carbon instead of CO2 is formed during methane pyrolysis, which plays an important role in the management of life cycle emissions and the economic viability of the process. Electron Beam Plasma Methane Pyrolysis is a decarbonization method of natural gas via methane pyrolysis.
Stage of Life Cycle
Products and Processes
GHG Reduction Potential
Methane pyrolysis in electron beam plasma allows hydrogen to be produced with significantly lower CO2 emissions along the life cycle, as solid carbon is the only by-product. The Energy demand: 1 kilowatt hour (KWh) of electricity to produce 0.6 KWh of hydrogen. Water electrolysis and methane pyrolysis can both yield hydrogen without direct emissions. However, if electrifying the electric beam occurs with fossil-based energy sources, the processes do have a CO2 footprint. The technology is expected to be powered with alternative sources in order to eliminate emissions occurying during energy production.
Solution Maturity Status
Under development:
The technology concept is not established yet. The focus is typically set on laboratory, pilot and evaluation processes.