Overview of hydrogen production technologies from biogas and the applications in fuel cells

Traditionally, H₂ is a large-scale production by the reforming process of light hydrocarbons, mainly natural gas, used by the chemical industry. However, the reforming technologies currently used encounter numerous technical/scientific challenges, which depend on the quality of raw materials, the conversion efficiency and security needs for the integration of H₂ production, purification and use, among others. Biogas is a high-potential versatile raw material for reforming processes, which can be used as an alternative CH₄ source. The production of H₂ from renewable sources, such as biogas, helps to largely reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Within this context, the integration of biogas reforming processes and the activation of fuel cell using H₂ represent an important route for generating clean energy, with added high-energy efficiency. This work expounds a literature review of the biogas reforming technologies, emphasizing the types of fuel cells available, the advantages offered by each route and the main problems faced.