Journal of Chemical Engineering & Process Technology
Open Access

Techno-economic data and feasibility of hydrogen production from biogas using a novel low cost Ni-based reforming catalyst derived from metallurgical residues

3^rd International Conference on Chemical Engineering

October 02-04, 2017 Chicago, USA

Nicolas Abatzoglou

Universit�© de Sherbrooke, Canada

Keynote: J Chem Eng Process Technol

Abstract :

Statement of the Problem: A new nickel catalyst was prepared from an ilmenite metallurgical residue consisting of an upgraded slag oxide (UGSO). Dry reforming of biogas, a mixture of equimolar amounts of CH4and CO2, does not necessitate other special reactants if the catalyst is efficient and sufficiently robust at the reaction conditions (T, P and gas spatial velocity). In recent scientific publications and a PCT patent pending, it has been shown that such a catalyst can be produced at low cost with a low-materials and energy intensity production protocol. Purpose: Present the preliminary engineering of an integrated industrialunit combining the in-house production of this novel catalytic formulations and its use to produce H2, using a typical landfill biogas or a combination of biogas and natural gas. Methods: Results: The study presents results on the following points: � Description of the catalyst and its chemistry. � Mechanistic aspects relying on fresh and used catalyst analyses. � Development of a phenomenological kinetic model, including the apparent activation energy of the controlling step and its use to simulate the reforming reactor operation. � Proofs of the catalysts efficiency, robustness, regenerability and an estimation of its life cycle. � Description of this catalysts production unit aimed at both providing the necessary in-house quantities and tackle the external market. � Preliminary engineering of a hydrogen production unit utilizing the new catalyst. � Estimation of the production cost as function of the unit size in targeting to evaluate its break-even point. Conclusion: The conclusion will focus on the techno-economic feasibility of such an industrial project within the actual market globalization context as function of parameters such as, size, reactants and products market price, market outreach and socioeconomic and environmental incentives.

Biography :

Nicolas Abatzoglou is a full Professor and Ex-Head of the Department of Chemical & Biotechnological Engineering of the Universit�© de Sherbrooke, Canada. He is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Saskatchewan and Laval University. He is a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering. He is a Specialist in Process Engineering involving particulate systems. He is the Director of the GRTP-C&P (Group of Research on Technologies and Processes in the Chemical & Pharmaceutical Industry). Since May 2008, he is the holder of the Pfizer Industrial Research Chair in Process Analytical Technologies (PAT) in Pharmaceutical Engineering. He is one of the leaders in Canadaâ��s NCE Network BioFuelNet on Biorefining. He is also a Co-Founder of the company Enerkem Technologies Inc., precursor of Enerkem Inc., a spin-off commercializing technologies in the field of energy from renewable resources. His scientific production includes more than 100 publications, reviews, conferences, keynotes, plenaries and invited lectures, patents and three book chapters.