Gas Composition Analysis Using Yttria-stabilized Zirconia Oxygen Sensor during Dry Reforming and Partial Oxidation of Methane

Abstract

Methane reforming is an important process for the production of hydrogen and synthesis gas. In this study, in- situ analyses of dry reforming and partial oxidation of methane over 1 wt% Ni/Al₂O₃ were conducted using an yttria-stabilized zirconia oxygen sensor. The oxygen sensor with five sensing points was inserted in the catalyst bed along the gas flow direction. The concentrations of species in the gas flow channel were estimated from the oxygen partial pressure detected by the sensor. The progress of reactions was successfully monitored at the respective points in both reforming reactions under the conditions investigated. The reaction temperature was also measured at three points using thermocouples during the partial oxidation of methane. The plausible reaction mechanism for the partial oxidation of methane over Ni/Al₂O₃ was proposed based on the distributions of gas species and temperature in the catalyst layer. Monitoring in the stability test indicated that the catalyst deactivation tendency was different depending on the position in the catalyst bed.