Recent advances in plasma-based methane reforming for syngas production

Abstract

Methane reforming, a pivotal process for converting the greenhouse gases CO₂ and CH₄ into valuable syngas, can be efficiently conducted using plasma technology at relatively low temperatures. This minireview highlights recent advancements in plasma-based methane reforming technologies, particularly dry reforming (DRM), with a focus on reaction performance, plasma-catalysis and carbon deposition. Microwave (MW) plasma-based DRM achieves high conversion, offers strong processing capabilities, and operates without the need for catalysts or electrodes, making it highly promising for industrial-scale applications. The integration of plasma with catalysts, especially in dielectric barrier discharge (DBD), significantly reduces the operation temperature of the DRM process. Bi-reforming (BRM) and tri-reforming of methane (TRM), which involve the addition of H₂O and/or O₂ to the dry reforming process, improve syngas quality by producing a more optimal H₂/CO ratio close to 2. Meanwhile, these approaches significantly reduce the carbon deposition, enhancing reactor stability and extending its operational lifespan.