Efficient, self sufficient production of methanol from a methane source via oxidative bi-reforming

Abstract

A method for producing methanol from a methane source such as methane from natural (shale) gas by first reacting one equivalent of methane with oxygen from the air to result in complete combustion to produce carbon dioxide and water in a molar ratio of 1:2; then conducting a bi-reforming process with a mixture of methane: carbon dioxide:water having a ratio of 3:1:2 to produce metgas, a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide having a molar ratio of 2:1 to 2.1:1; and finally converting metgas exclusively to methanol. The thus produced methanol can be dehydrated to form dimethyl ether, with water produced being recycled back to the bi-reforming process, if necessary.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]Although fossil fuels still have a wide application and high demand, they have limitations due to their finite reserves. Also, the combustion of fossil fuels produces carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming.[0002]With the development of various large natural (shale) gas sources in many parts of the world and with the existence of other methane sources such as coal bed methane, methane hydrates, etc., the availability of extensive methane reserves is assured at least for this century. The conversion of natural (shale) gas into liquids, preferentially to methanol used for transportation fuels and source material for varied essential chemical products, is of great practical significance (Beyond Oil and Gas: The Methanol Economy, G. A. Olah, A. Goeppert and G. K. S. Prakash, 2nd Edition, Wiley-VCH, Weinheim, 2009). Currently, widely practiced steam reforming processes of methane generate syngas, CO:H2 with a ratio of 1:3. Additionally, dry reforming with carb...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention offers a new and cost-effective method for producing methanol from natural gas without waste and byproducts. The process is carbon and energy neutral, and can be adapted to any location and available feeds. This allows for the efficient and environmentally friendly processing of methane or natural gas to methanol and related products. The process consists of three main reactions: the complete combustion of methane, the bi-reforming reaction of methane using CO2 and H2O, and the synthesis of methanol from metgas (CO-2H2). These reactions are separate and well proven, and the process utilizes heat generated from the partial oxidation of methane without requiring further external energy input or purification of CO2 or water. The process produces a simple, flexible, and economical solution for converting methane or natural gas to methanol.

Problems solved by technology

Although fossil fuels still have a wide application and high demand, they have limitations due to their finite reserves.

These processes involve multiple steps to adjust the needed syngas ratio, however, and also produce significant amounts of carbon dioxide or other oxidation byproducts, which need to be separated or disposed.

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