Noncatalytic Synthesis Gas Production by Reduction of ZnO with Methane in a Dilute Phase Pneumatic Conveying Reactor

A continuous dilute phase pneumatic conveying reactor has been constructed for management of the ZnO reduction by methane. Preheated zinc oxide powder was fed and mixed with methane with specific ratio continuously. The reactor features an upward flow of pure CH4 laden with ZnO particles, which moved through the reactor. The heating zone length was 184 cm in which the reactants converted to synthesis gas and zinc. The maximum chemical conversion of methane to synthesis gas was 94% at the reactor temperature of 1398 K and methane flow rate of 2.7 L/min. Analysis of the product gases revealed high quality synthesis gas production without the influence of methane cracking or other undesired side reactions. Reactor temperature, solid reactant preheating, and residence time in the hot zone had significant influence on the chemical conversion. A steady-state one-dimensional reactor model was generated, and the result of simulation was successfully compared with experiments.