Development of a Combined Plasma‐Matrix Reformer for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Application

A novel plasma‐matrix reformer (PMR) was suggested for methane conversion into hydrogen‐rich fuel. To demonstrate the possibility of reforming performance, characteristics of product gas and CH4 conversion were identified according to O2/C ratio, water vapor supply, reformed gas recirculation, and water feed in the recirculation gas affecting energy conversion and hydrogen production. When the reformed gas recirculation and water feed to the recirculation pipe were performed at the same time, hydrogen production and energy conversion efficiency were superior compared to the conventional reforming method. The optimal operating conditions of the PMR were determined. The obtained high energy conversion efficiency and hydrogen selectivity indicated the applicability to solid oxide fuel cell stacks for residential power generation. A novel approach of a reforming conversion device incorporating a plasma combustor and a matrix burner for methane conversion into hydrogen‐rich fuel is proposed. The possibilities of reforming performance were investigated. The high energy conversion efficiency and hydrogen selectivity demonstrated the applicability to solid oxide fuel cell stacks for residential power generation.