Vesihöyrysiirtoreaktio

Vesihöyrysiirtoreaktio, also known as steam reforming, is a chemical process used to produce hydrogen and carbon monoxide from hydrocarbons. The primary feedstock is typically natural gas, which is mainly composed of methane. In this reaction, methane is reacted with steam at high temperatures, typically between 700 and 1000 degrees Celsius, and under pressure, usually between 3 and 25 bar.

The main reaction involves methane and water:

CH4 + H2O <=> CO + 3H2

This reaction is endothermic, meaning it requires energy input, usually in the form of heat, to proceed. A secondary reaction, the water-gas shift reaction, is often coupled with steam reforming to maximize hydrogen production and adjust the ratio of hydrogen to carbon monoxide:

CO + H2O <=> CO2 + H2

This second reaction is exothermic. The combined process is a cornerstone of industrial hydrogen production, especially for applications in ammonia synthesis, methanol production, and petroleum refining. It is also a key step in producing syngas, a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide, which serves as a building block for various chemicals and fuels. Challenges in the process include managing heat efficiently, preventing catalyst deactivation, and dealing with the release of carbon dioxide.