Abstract
Developments of hydrogen production via thermal plasma processing for the last several decades were reviewed. Hydrocarbon
pyrolysis by thermal plasma is one of the most profitable methods to produce hydrogen energy with useful carbon materials. High
decomposition rate of hydrocarbon can be easily achieved by high temperature of thermal plasmas. Commercial scale plasma
methane pyrolysis process has already been demonstrated with high yield of hydrogen and high-value carbon. Understandings of
fundamental phenomena in hydrocarbon pyrolysis in thermal plasma processing will expand its profitability with higher energy
efficiency.
