CFD-DEM simulation of dynamic temperature effects on catalytic methane steam reforming using GBFS

Abstract

This study employs CFD-DEM simulations to investigate the methane steam reforming process catalyzed by Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GBFS) and tracks the temperature fluctuations of GBFS particles. The effects of mixed gas velocity, particle size, particle temperature, steam-to-carbon (S/C) ratio, and pressure on the reaction process are explored. The results show that higher S/C ratios and GBFS particle temperatures enhance the reaction rate and hydrogen production, while gas velocity and pressure have minimal effects. An increase in GBFS particle size leads to a decrease in reaction rate and reduces temperature fluctuations. Additionally, a reaction pathway for methane steam reforming is proposed. These findings provide valuable insights into the chemical recovery of waste heat from GBFS.