Valorization of C2 + Hydrocarbons Via Plasma Processes

Abstract

Hydrocarbon chains produced as byproduct of natural gas extraction and petrochemical processing can be valorised into syngas/H2 and oxygenated fuels in a modular fashion through electrified modular plasma reactors. A plethora of configurations is available for light hydrocarbons reforming, with cold plasma assemblies emerging as the favourite option for both gas-phase and biphasic gas/liquid set-ups. Accurate control of dehydrogenation or partial oxidation reactions is provided by the implementation of a catalyst or through microreactor technology. On the contrary, warm plasma reactors are more suitable for reforming of gasoline/diesel chains, promoting higher throughput of H2 per energy input. This reaction route does not necessarily require the deployment of a catalyst, hence making these systems more suitable for modular, decentralized processes. Online diagnostic techniques shed light on the reaction mechanism, where solid carbon deposits embody a low-value byproduct.