The catalytic activity of micro-reactors containing a foam-like ceramic is tested in terms of their ability to convert alcoholic biofuel (e.g. methanol) to a hydrogen-rich gas mixture with low concentrations of carbon monoxide (up to 75% hydrogen content and less than 0.2% CO, for the case of methanol). The reactors are placed inside of a solar collector to provide the required heat for the heat-up and evaporation of the reagents and the compensation of reaction enthalpy and heat losses in form of sunlight.The reformate gas is subsequently used in a low-temperature fuel cell, converting the hydrogen directly to electricity. A low concentration of CO is crucial to avoid poisoning of the fuel cell catalyst. Since conventional Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) fuel cells require CO concentrations far below 100 ppm, the concentration of CO is reduced by Preferential Oxidation (PROX), achieving CO conversion of more than 99.5% at 80�C.

Hydrogen production from biofuel under sunlight: A hybrid approach

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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