M-Era.net project acronym: INNOHYPPY
Project duration: 01.06.2023. – 31.05.2026.
Project Manager – Dr. Šarūnas Varnagiris, Lithuanian energy institute, Lithuania
Partners:
- Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia;
- Jožef Stefan Institute (Slovenia)
Responsible person from ISSP UL – Dr. Līga Grīnberga
Total funding: 543 888 euro
ISSP UL part: 183 888 euro
Project Aim:
Fundamental and practical investigation of Fe/Ni materials by development of novel catalyst for cleaner and more efficient clean hydrogen production via methane pyrolysis technique as well as their regeneration in order to increase its durability, where all the residues will be used as secondary raw materials for further application.
Project Summary:
According to the Sustainable Development Goal on Energy (SDG7) as well as Green Deal, RePowerEU and other EU initiatives, clean energy solutions are essential to counter climate change, one of the biggest threats to our own survival. To reach ambitious EU goals, the development of advanced materials, which could be applied in a field of clean energy production and utilization will play a key role. Moreover, it is generally agreed that hydrogen energy development is a priority for a clean and circular economy as well as a reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
In this project, novel catalyst development activities will be initiated for clean hydrogen production via pyrolysis technique as well as experiments of catalyst material regeneration in order to extend its lifetime while all the residues will be used as secondary raw materials for further application. Specifically, instead of existing methods, gamma alumina support for Fe/Ni catalyst deposition will be prepared in an innovative way, using a direct modified aluminium-water reaction based on the Lithuanian energy institute EPO patent. The magnetron sputtering technique will be used for the synthesis of Fe with widely dispersed Ni nanoclusters on gamma alumina. The systematic investigation of the methane pyrolysis process using a synthesised catalyst and finding the optimal reactor of methane pyrolysis design will be implemented. Novel regeneration by plasma treatment of deactivated catalyst after the pyrolysis process will be performed. Finally, the evaluation of pyrolysis reaction by-product (solid carbon) properties and original application for preparation of carbon-based electrode used for detection of pesticides will be initiated. The general start and the target TRL of mentioned project activities is between TRL 2 and TRL 4, respectively.
The project reflects the impacts, which are expected to reach ambitious goals related to climate change including energy conversion, higher efficiency with improved overall performance, avoiding the use of critical raw materials (CRM), utilization of waste material and ensuring sustainability of the whole process. Besides lowering the carbon footprint, the project will suggest dual clean hydrogen production (via hydrolysis and pyrolysis reactions) technology.
Expected Results:
- Novel catalyst structure, which positively influences the conditions of methane pyrolysis.
- Laboratory validated pyrolysis process technology, where the most suitable parameters will be clarified.
- Method, that based on plasma treatment for regeneration of deactivated catalyst.
- Technology where the carbon-based thick film will be used as the working electrode for detection of pesticides.
Tasks at ISSP UL:
- Pre- and after treatment catalyst and carbon material analysis.
- Creation of a system for the pyrolysis process and gas analysis.
- Pyrolysis experiments and analysis of the composition of the resulting gases.
- Creation of pyrolysis reactor and overall system model.
- Communication and dissemination.
Project progress information
Period 01.06.2023.-31.12.2023.
Milestone 1 reached
Design of the experimental set-up and gas line for methane decomposition
The experimental set-up is designed for the catalytic decomposition of methane into hydrogen and carbon under elevated temperatures within a controlled reactor environment. The gas line configuration allows the systematic collection of samples and safe storage of the produced hydrogen, contributing to a comprehensive study of the impact of catalyst and temperature on reactions and physical processes.
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Reactor Design:
The quartz tube test reactor (OD 60 mm, length 1000 mm, heating length 440 mm) is a controlled air-less environment where a methane undergoes decomposition in the presence of a catalyst. It is compatible with high-temperature conditions and equipped with precise temperature control mechanisms to ensure a stable and reproducible experiments.
Temperature Control:
Precise temperature control is maintained within the reactor to ensure optimal conditions for methane decomposition. This is achieved through a combination of heating elements and K type thermocouples. Heater working temperature can reach 1200℃ with a precision of +/- 1℃ with a heating range 10℃/min.
Catalyst Integration:
A Fe/Ni catalyst deposited on gamma alumina support is introduced into the reactor in quartz cruicible to facilitate and enhance the methane decomposition process.
Gas Line Configuration:
Before starting the experiment, the system is purged to remove any residual air. Methane is then introduced into the reactor and subjected to controlled heating for temperature optimization, crucial for efficient methane decomposition into hydrogen and carbon. Post-decomposition, the gases flow through the integral gas line, which splits into two paths. One path directs gases to a sample bag for analysis, enabling the determination of reaction products, while the other stores hydrogen/gases for future use.
Period 01.11.2023 – 30.04.2024.
Deliverable D.3.1. completed
The implementation of an experimental set-up and gas pipeline for clean hydrogen production via methane pyrolysis is completed. Based on in Milestone 1 developed design, updated model is elaborated including purchased tubular oven and adjusted gas line to ensure efficient system operation.
All necessary equipment components to install tubular oven with heat regulation, gas line and sample gathering port were procured according to the project plan. The real system was installed following the updated design guidelines, with close attention to easy to use and safety considerations.
Comprehensive testing procedures were conducted to verify the functionality and integrity of the gas line and experimental set-up. With the upgraded experimental set-up and gas line in place, experiments are now being performed with confidence and success. The system operates smoothly and initial results indicate promising outcomes, ensuring further experiments and research in methane decomposition.
