A novel electrified reactor developed by Monash University researchers could offer a lower-temperature, lower-cost and environmentally gentler alternative to chemical manufacturers using methane reforming to make syngas, according to the university.
In a statement on Wednesday, Monash said the reactor for dry reforming of methane (DRM) could cut emissions by up to 60 per cent and be used in the creation of chemicals such as methanol, ammonia and synthetic fuels.
It is intended to be a substitute for traditional methods that burn fossil fuels to create temperatures over 900 degrees Celsius.
The statement from the university gives away few details about how the reactor works, but says it features “3D-printed monoliths designed to maximise surface area for greater efficiency” and that the engineers behind it used “a precise catalyst coating technique”.
(More information is available through a paper in the journal Applied Catalysis B: Environment and Energy.)
“Instead of relying on fossil fuel combustion, industries can now power these reactions in a sustainable way, cutting both operational costs and emissions,” said Professor Akshat Tanksale.
Tanksale is lead researcher on the work, as well as Deputy Director of ARC Research Hub for Carbon Utilisation and Recycling and Carbon Theme Leader at the Woodside Monash Energy Partnership.
“Our electrified reactor shows remarkable efficiency, converting 96 per cent of methane into usable energy, surpassing the 75 per cent conversion rate of traditional methods,” said Tanksale.
“The compact, modular nature of this reactor allows for easy integration into existing infrastructure, enabling rapid deployment and scaling at industrial sites without major disruptions.”
Picture: credit Monash