| Abstract: | The thermodynamic equilibria involved in the catalytic steam reformation of methanol to produce hydrogen have been examined over the ranges of pressure 101–3040 kPa, temperature 400–700K and water to methanol feed ratio 1.5–0.67. Four models have been considered based upon possible reaction products and the equilibrium composition of each model calculated. The presence of methane and carbon reduce the quantity and quality of hydrogen produced. The best condition for hydrogen production occurs at 500K in the model in which carbon (soot) and methane gas are excluded and where pressures are low, and water is in excess in the feed. To achieve these conditions in practice the reactions for methane formation, which is thermodynamically favoured, and the appearance of carbon (soot) must be inhibited. |
