Evaluation of Hydrogen Production in Microreactors via Ammonia Reforming on Bimetallic Catalysts

• Grant number: 24/20037-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate
• Start date: February 28, 2025
• End date: February 27, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Chemical Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Rubens Maciel Filho
• Grantee: Letícia Maria Sampaio Barros
• Supervisor: Fernanda Neira D'Angelo
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia Química (FEQ). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Netherlands
• Associated to the scholarship: 23/08594-9 - Hydrogen production via ammonia reforming over ni-based catalysts in a microchannel reactor, BP.DR

Abstract

Hydrogen (H2) production is gaining significant attention due to its crucial role in the energy transition. However, challenges related to its compression and distribution have directed the research focus towards on-site and on-demand H¿ production, which is achievable through the reforming (cracking) of hydrogen-rich molecules, such as ammonia (NH3). This process is facilitated by reactors operating with catalysts under high temperature conditions. Additionally, the development of intensified processes that can be performed at lab scale and be easily scaled-up to commercial applications, presents a promising approach for enhancing reforming reactions. Microreactors, in particular, offer advantages such as high H2 yield and facile reaction control, making them ideal for such processes. In this aspect, this project proposes the production of hydrogen from ammonia and diluted ammonia (ammonium hydroxide, NH4OH) using microreactors. To this end, different catalyst configurations will be developed and tested in the microreactor, in collaboration with the Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands. The chosen institution has tradition for its innovations in engineering and is one of the leading research centers in the country. The present proposal complies with what was stated in FAPESP project #2023/08594-9 regarding the research internship abroad and is linked to thematic projects #2015/20630-4 and #2022/16379-8. The PhD student will be supervised by Professors Maria Fernanda Neira d'Angelo and Fausto Gallucci, both of whom have extensive expertise in intensified processes. Their guidance, along with the resources of this esteemed institution, will provide the essential support required for the successful completion of this project.