The key new technology is the new electrified steam-methane reforming reactor (eREACT ™)
Technology and research
Today, a large-scale industrial (traditional) SMR reformer consists of an array of more than a hundred 10-14 m long tubular reactors in a large furnace, with gas burners positioned for an optimal distribution of heat among the reactor tubes. The combustion must occur significantly above the reaction temperature to generate the necessary inward heat flux.
Electrifying conventional chemical reactors offers significant benefits, including reduced CO2 emissions and flexible, scalable heat generation. The direct contact between the electric heat source and the catalyst allows for precise control of the reaction front, overcoming thermal limitations.
Our solution integrates elements from both fossil and renewable methanol production, alongside biogas technology and supporting technologies, to create a more competitive renewable alternative. Central to this solution is the novel steam-methane reforming reactor (eREACT™).
By eliminating the need for the fired section, the electrified eREACT™ not only reduces reactor volume, CO2 emissions, and waste-heat streams but is also much more energy efficient.
Additionally, the methods we develop, such as simulation techniques, business models, and life cycle analysis (LCA), are closely tied to the novelty of the eREACT™. Their innovation lies in their unique application to an eREACT™ industrial plant.
Related research activities
The 6MEUR+ project is supported by the EUDP Energy Technology Development and Demonstration Program. We built the demonstrator plant at lab scale, which we use in the pilot.
How it supports NextFuel
The eSMR approach that is core to NextFuel’s methods, and in this project, the technology was de-risked through building a lab-scale prototype and operating it to enable us to confirm that the technology is efficient and stable.
CIRCULAIR will investigate and develop an innovative process for resource-efficient production of sustainable aviation biofuels alongside further marketable renewable chemicals and fuel products.
How it supports NextFuel
TOPSOE is a major developer of process technologies, also for aviation biofuels. We bring experience in the utilisation of biomass feedstock, work on cost efficiency, environmental analysis and the possibility of scaling
It will facilitate the transition of the waterborne sector towards climate neutrality by delivering a digital green concept for the electrification of vessels consisting of a Green Digital Twin (GDT).
How it supports NextFuel
Knowledge, problems, troubleshooting etc. from the demonstration of a large battery in vessels will be transferred to the demonstration of the use of biomethanol as shipping fuel.
The project produces a systematic overview of current practices in port training and identifies health and safety issues and assists in shaping health and safety training priorities for the future, ensuring active participation of key stakeholders and facilitating broad and open dialogue with social partners on the evolving training needs in the European port industry.
How it supports NextFuel
Best current practices for training, training needs, skills and safety are incorporated into the NextFuel project. Training programs for both the ship crew and the plant staff will benefit from the expertise. Safety in using alternative fuels is also linked to perceived risk and acceptance among crew and plant operators, which are areas where CERTH from this project and others have competences.
Center for an Energy Efficient and Competitive Industry for the Future. This 8-year program (2016-2024) has a total budget of €50M. It focuses on energy efficiency at several levels from equipment through plants to industrial parks.
How it supports NextFuel
Use methodologies and tools for modelling and optimization of energy efficiency developed in the HighEFF project. One area where this is important is in the integration of the eSMR module and the biogas plant.
Metallolinker-Functionalized MOF Catalysts for CO2 Hydrogenation. Switching away from fossil fuels will help reduce climate change, and cheaper methanol can be a part of that drive.
How it supports NextFuel
It will deliver an “Open Digital Twin Framework” for both shipping companies and the broader waterborne industry actors to tap into new opportunities made available through the use of Digital Twinning innovations to support smart green shipping applications in both the upgrade of existing ships, as well as the building of new vessels.
How it supports NextFuel
Digital twin platform developments in terms of green shipping applications could be used in the NextFuel project. Also, WEGEMT builds on its expertise and network from this and many other Horizon projects as a result dissemination and communication partner.
It aims to tackle the reduction of emissions from shipping and on-shore port operations following an integrated approach, enhancing in that way port authorities’ capacity to plan and implement low-carbon and multimodal transport and mobility solutions and further empowering the main political, technical and trade stakeholders in related decision-making.
How it supports NextFuel
The knowledge and expertise acquired during the SUPAIR project about the reduction of emissions from shipping could be transferred to NextFuel for the use of biomethanol.
