Catalytic Conversion of Simulated Biogas Mixtures to Synthesis Gas in a Fluidized Bed Reactor Supported by a DBD

The catalytic conversion of methane and carbon dioxide was studied in a fluidized bed reactor supported by a 13.56 Hz driven coaxial DBD-reactor. Palladium or cupper catalyst which are covered on Al2O3 particles were used. The goal was to test whether biogas can be used for the production of synthesis gas. The influences of discharge power, catalysts and temperature of the catalyst bed on the product yield were studied. The starting material and product stream was analyzed by quadrupole mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy. H2/CO ratios can be adjusted in a range between 0.65 (without a catalyst) and 1.75 (using a copper catalyst). The process is highly selective for hydrogen production (up to 83%, using a Palladium catalyst). A copper catalyst increases the H2/CO ratio can from 1.04 to 1.16 and the palladium catalyst from 1.11 to 1.43 by heating the catalyst to a temperature of 250°C.