Inductively heated methane pyrolysis

The partner organization intends to decarbonize it’s Canadian lime kilns. One option is to switch to biogenic sources worldwide, although doing so will still result in CO2 emissions. A preferred option is to switch to hydrogen, because it is clean and results in higher kiln efficiency. The technology described in this proposal would advance these efforts by using methane from the existing carbon infrastructure and converting it into hydrogen and solid carbon.

Methane pyrolysis is a CO2-free method of producing hydrogen. Being an endothermic process, energy input is necessary, and emission-free energy is needed to keep the process CO2-free. Using clean electricity is one strategy, however resistive heaters have drawbacks such as high costs and poor heat efficiency. This proposal suggests the use of inductive heaters to heat catalyst to produce clean energy. Additionally, in order to avoid the manage the carbon that deactivates traditional solid catalysts, mechanical carbon removal at moderate temperatures will be employed.

Faculty Supervisor:

Chester Upham

Student:

Partner:

Mercer International (Yukon)

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: