Design and multiobjective optimization of membrane steam methane reformer: A computational fluid dynamic analysis

A membrane reactor affords promising advantages for processes; however, it faces many issues such as the high cost, manufacturing complexity, and ineffective zones. In this numerical analysis, we propose a design and multiobjective optimization of membrane steam methane reforming reactor to attain an effective arrangement for high hydrogen yield and separation. Four configurations were investigated for comparative analysis, adopting continuous and segmented catalyst and membrane arrangements; thereafter, the genetic algorithm optimization approach was applied. The advantages of the proposed membrane and catalyst design were shown and justified. Compared to the conventional case, the results showed high hydrogen yield and separation in the design case, despite the significant reduction in the Pd membrane length. For the optimal case, further improvement of the hydrogen separation and high hydrogen yield were achieved with 20% less catalyst load and an 80% reduction in the membrane length as the membrane was effectively embedded, which can significantly reduce the cost of the process. Furthermore, the complexity of the membrane reactor was avoided as the reaction and the separation were conducted separately.