At Kuban State University (KubSU), a compact unit has been developed for producing ultra-pure hydrogen from methane using steam reforming with integrated membrane separation.
The new unit belongs to the field of chemical and power engineering and is designed for use in distributed energy, oil refining, microelectronics, and local chemical production.
A key feature of the solution is the combination of a steam reforming reactor with a membrane unit based on a palladium hydrogen-permeable membrane, which allows for immediate separation of high-purity hydrogen from the reaction mixture.
The design includes a stainless steel body, an electric heater, a nickel-based catalytic layer with an alumina support, and a steam generation system. Special attention is paid to the membrane unit: it is fixed in a steel holder with copper ring seals and reinforced with a frame with a high proportion of open area, which reduces flow resistance and improves gas distribution.
According to the developers, the technical effect is achieved by increasing process productivity, more stable thermal conditions, and increased mechanical stability of the membrane sealing unit. Additionally, the cooling system and automated parameter control reduce temperature gradients and improve process controllability.
