Voruntersuchungen zum schmelzmetallurgischen Cracken von Methan

Translated title of the contribution: Preliminary studies on the smelting metallurgical cracking of methane

Andre Michael Hochfellner

Research output: ThesisMaster's Thesis

Abstract

In order to counteract the progress of climate change and its effects on the ecosystem, it is necessary to minimize CO2 emissions by decarbonizing the energy system. Pyrolysis of methane is considered an important bridge technology until a carbon-free energy concept is achieved. In this context, the research and development of efficient liquid metal catalysts is of particular importance. The focus of the present work represents the study of the decomposition of methane in the presence of molten metals and alloys at laboratory scale. Pyrolysis experiments are carried out in a liquid metal reactor using different metal baths. The evaluation of the pure metals and alloys with regard to their catalytic effectiveness is carried out by evaluating the recorded product gas flow and a morphology and composition analysis of the carbon formed using SEM/EDS. The results obtained are essentially in line with the findings reported in the literature. All the molten baths studied decompose methane better with increasing temperature due to endothermic reaction kinetics. However, significant differences in the decomposition rate are observed between the individual metals and alloys. The addition of nickel as an alloying element causes a significant improvement in the catalytic activity of all pure metals used. The analysis of the discharged carbon further reveals a dependence of the occurring carbon morphology on the molten bath applied. These initial results illustrate that the application of liquid metal reactors for methane pyrolysis represents a promising approach to the production of hydrogen and can thus make a valuable contribution to climate neutrality.
Translated title of the contributionPreliminary studies on the smelting metallurgical cracking of methane
Original languageGerman
QualificationDipl.-Ing.
Awarding Institution
  • Montanuniversität
Supervisors/Advisors
  • Antrekowitsch, Helmut, Supervisor (internal)
Publication statusPublished - 2021

Bibliographical note

embargoed until 16-02-2026

Keywords

  • methane
  • catalysis
  • carbon morphology
  • molten metals

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