Organic Waste-to-Hydrogen via Anaerobic Digestion and Steam Reforming

This research project evaluates the integrated anaerobic digestion and steam reforming (AD-SR) pathway as a sustainable, decarbonized alternative for hydrogen production from organic waste streams, including food scraps, agricultural residues, and municipal solid waste. The process involves the anaerobic degradation of organic matter to generate methane-rich biogas, followed by catalytic steam reforming to convert the biogas into hydrogen-rich syngas. This study provides a comprehensive methodology for modeling and simulating the AD-SR system to optimize hydrogen yields, which typically range from 50% to 70% (0.1 to 0.3 kg H₂ per kg of dry waste). Key focus areas include the thermodynamic analysis of nickel-based catalysts, the optimization of steam-to-carbon ratios above 2.0

to prevent catalyst coking, and the integration of hybrid reforming techniques for carbon dioxide utilization. Additionally, the research addresses critical operational challenges such as hydrogen sulfide poisoning of catalysts and the high thermal energy requirements of the reforming stage (~800°C). Through process simulation, this work supports the evaluation of the levelized cost of hydrogen and the environmental benefits of the AD-SR pathway, offering a structured framework for green chemical engineering research.

Message: Hi FE, I need help with “Organic Waste-to-Hydrogen via Anaerobic Digestion and Steam Reforming” in “Chemical Engineering”