Equilibrium prediction of CO2 reforming of coke oven gas: Suitability for methanol production

A thermodynamic study of the equilibrium of the CO2 reforming of coke oven gas (COG) was carried out with the aid of Aspen Plus® software. The influence of various operation conditions (temperature, pressure, COG composition and CO2/CH4 ratio) upon different parameters (conversions, yields, outlet composition, carbon production, by-products) was studied in order to evaluate the suitability of the process for producing a synthesis gas appropriate for methanol production. It was established that it is necessary to work at temperatures higher than 800 °C, at the lowest possible pressures and in stoichiometric conditions of CH4 and CO2. It was also found that the presence of light hydrocarbons in the COG gives rise to a syngas that is more suitable for methanol production than when they are absent. However, they were also observed to promote deactivation of the catalyst.

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► The CO2 reforming of coke oven gas was studied using Aspen Plus software.
► The syngas produced was found to be suitable for methanol synthesis.
► Stoichiometric conditions of CH4/CO2 are mandatory for obtaining a suitable syngas.
► Temperatures above 800 °C and the lowest possible pressures are preferred.
► Presence of C2Hx improves syngas quality but promotes catalyst deactivation.