Reactor module and separator membrane module

Abstract

A reactor module (2) comprises a housing (3) and a plurality of reactors (1) which are disposed around the central axis (AX) in the housing (3). In a cross section along the radial direction perpendicular to the central axis (AX), the shortest distances (D1) between the housing (3) and each reactor (1) are equivalent to each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a reactor module and a separation membrane module.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, reactor modules used for conversion reactions from raw material gases containing hydrogen and carbon dioxide to liquid fuels (such as methanol and ethanol) have been developed.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a reactor module including a plurality of reactors housed in a housing. Each reactor is a tube-type reactor.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the reactor module described in Patent Document 1, since the distance between the reactor and the housing is different for each reactor, each reactor is placed in a non-uniform thermal environment. Therefore, there are reactors that are overheated or overcooled among the plurality of reactors, and the conversion efficiency in the reactor becomes relatively low, or the service life becomes short.

[0006] Also, in a separation membrane module including a separation filter, when heating or cooling the separation membrane for permeating a desired component contained in the mixed fluid, if there is a separation filter that is not sufficiently heated or cooled or a separation filter that is excessively heated or cooled, the separation performance becomes low or the service life becomes short.

[0007] The present invention aims to provide a reactor module and a separation membrane module capable of homogenizing the thermal environment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A reactor module according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises a housing and a plurality of reactors arranged within the housing around a predetermined axis. In a cross-section along the radial direction perpendicular to the predetermined axis, the shortest distances between the housing and each of the plurality of reactors are equal to each other.

[0009] A reactor module relating to a second aspect of the present invention relates to the first aspect described above, wherein a plurality of reactors are arranged on a line of similarity that is similar to the contour of the inner circumferential surface of the housing.

[0010] A reactor module relating to a third aspect of the present invention relates to the first aspect, wherein the housing is hollow, and the plurality of reactors include a plurality of first reactors arranged on a first similarity line similar to the inner circumferential surface of the housing, and a plurality of second reactors arranged on a second similarity line similar to the inner circumferential surface of the housing and surrounding the first similarity line.

[0011] A reactor module relating to the fourth aspect of the present invention relates to any of the first to third aspects described above, wherein the external shape of the housing is cylindrical or elliptical with respect to a predetermined axis, and the external shape of each of the multiple reactors is cylindrical or elliptical.

[0012] A reactor module relating to a fifth aspect of the present invention relates to any of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the reactor has a separation membrane that allows products of a conversion reaction from a raw material gas containing hydrogen and carbon oxide to a liquid fuel to pass through, a first channel on the non-permeable side of the separation membrane, and a second channel on the permeable side of the separation membrane, the second channel having first and second openings that open to the surface of the reactor, the first opening being connected to a non-outflow side space within the housing, the second opening being connected to an outflow side space within the housing, and the non-outflow side space being isolated from the outflow side space.

[0013] A reactor module relating to the sixth aspect of the present invention relates to the fifth aspect and includes a first ventilation resistance member arranged in the non-outflow space and surrounding the first opening of the reactor, the first ventilation resistance member providing ventilation resistance to the sweep gas flowing from the non-outflow space into the first opening.

[0014] A reactor module relating to the seventh aspect of the present invention relates to the sixth aspect and includes a second ventilation resistance member arranged in the outflow-side space and surrounding the second opening of the reactor, wherein the second ventilation resistance member provides ventilation resistance to the sweep gas flowing out from the second opening into the outflow-side space, and the ventilation resistance of one of the first and second ventilation resistance members is greater than the ventilation resistance of the other of the first and second ventilation resistance members.

[0015] A separation membrane module according to an eighth aspect of the present invention comprises a housing and a plurality of separation filters arranged within the housing around a predetermined axis and requiring heating or cooling. In a cross-section along the radial direction perpendicular to the predetermined axis, the shortest distance between the housing and each of the plurality of separation filters is equivalent to that of the others. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a reactor module and a separation membrane module that can homogenize the thermal environment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] Perspective side view of a reactor module according to the first embodiment [Figure 2] Cross-sectional view of XX in Figure 1 [Figure 3] Perspective view of the reactor according to the first embodiment [Figure 4] Cross-sectional view AA in Figure 3 [Figure 5] BB cross-section view in Figure 3 [Figure 6] Cross-sectional view of CC in Figure 4 [Figure 7] Cross-sectional view of the reactor module according to the second embodiment [Figure 8] Cross-sectional view of a reactor module according to modified example 6 [Figure 9] Side view of the ventilation resistance member according to Modification 6 [Figure 10] Top view of the discharge pipe according to Modification 6

Embodiment for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] 1. First Embodiment

[0019] (Reactor Module 2) The Reactor Module 2 according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a perspective side view of the Reactor Module 2.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1, the Reactor Module 2 includes a plurality of Reactors 1, a Housing 3, a First Sealing Portion 4, a Second Sealing Portion 5, and a Flow Stop Portion 6.

[0021] [Reactor 1] The Reactor 1 is housed in the Housing 3. In the present embodiment, the outer shape of the Reactor 1 is cylindrical.

[0022] The Reactor 1 is a so-called membrane reactor for converting a raw material gas into a liquid fuel. The raw material gas contains at least hydrogen and carbon dioxide. The raw material gas may contain carbon monoxide. The raw material gas may be so-called synthesis gas (Syngas). The liquid fuel is a fuel in a liquid state at normal temperature and normal pressure, or a fuel that can be liquefied under normal temperature and pressurized conditions. Examples of fuels in a liquid state at normal temperature and normal pressure include methanol, ethanol, C n H 2(m-2n) (where m is an integer less than 90 and n is an integer less than 30), and mixtures thereof. Examples of fuels that can be liquefied under normal temperature and pressurized conditions include propane, butane, and mixtures thereof.

[0023] For example, the reaction formula (1) for synthesizing methanol by catalytic hydrogenation of a raw material gas containing hydrogen and carbon dioxide in the presence of a catalyst is as follows.

[0024] CO2 + 3H2 ⇔ CH3OH + H2O (1)

[0025] The above reaction is an equilibrium reaction, and reactor 1 can shift the reaction equilibrium to the product side by separating water vapor, which is one of the products of the conversion reaction. To increase the conversion efficiency and reaction rate, it is preferable to carry out the conversion reaction under high temperature and high pressure (for example, 180°C or higher, 2 MPa or higher). The liquid fuel is in a gaseous state at the time of synthesis and is maintained in a gaseous state at least until it flows out of reactor 1. It is preferable that reactor 1 has heat resistance and pressure resistance suitable for the synthesis conditions of the desired liquid fuel.

[0026] The placement and detailed configuration of Reactor 1 will be described later.

[0027] [Housing 3] The housing 3 is mainly made of a metal material (such as stainless steel). The housing 3 houses a plurality of reactors 1. In this embodiment, the external shape of the housing 3 is cylindrical with a central axis AX at its center. The central axis AX is an example of a "predetermined axis" according to the present invention.

[0028] The interior of the housing 3 is divided into first to fourth spaces P1 to P4 by a first sealing section 4, a second sealing section 5, and a flow-stopping section 6. The housing 3 has a raw material gas supply port 3a, a liquid fuel outlet 3b, a sweep gas supply port 3c, and a sweep gas outlet 3d.

[0029] The raw material gas is supplied to the first space P1 from the raw material gas supply port 3a. The raw material gas flows from the first space P1 into the reactor 1. The liquid fuel flows out of the reactor 1 into the second space P2. The liquid fuel that has flowed out into the second space P2 is discharged to the outside from the liquid fuel outlet 3b.

[0030] The sweep gas is supplied to the third space P3 from the sweep gas supply port 3c. The sweep gas flows into the reactor 1 from the third space P3. The sweep gas that has taken in water vapor in the reactor 1 flows out of the reactor 1 to the fourth space P4. The sweep gas that has flowed out into the fourth space P4 is discharged to the outside from the sweep gas outlet 3d. The third space P3 is an example of a "non-outflow side space" where the water vapor separated in the reactor 1 does not flow out. The fourth space P4 is an example of an "outflow side space" where the water vapor separated in the reactor 1 flows out.

[0031] As shown in Figure 1, the third space P3 is isolated from the fourth space P4 by the flow-stopping section 6. By providing the third space P3 and the fourth space P4, which are isolated from each other within the housing 3, it is possible to recover the water vapor separated in the reactor 1.

[0032] In this embodiment, water vapor is recovered using a sweeping gas. However, it is also possible to recover water vapor without using a sweeping gas by reducing the pressure in the fourth space P4 compared to the third space P3. In this case, a vacuum pump should be installed on the sweeping gas outlet 3d side.

[0033] [First sealing section 4] The first sealing portion 4 seals the space between the housing 3 and the first end portion 1a of the reactor 1. The first sealing portion 4 holds the first end portion 1a of the reactor 1. The first sealing portion 4 has a through hole through which the first end portion 1a of the reactor 1 is inserted.

[0034] Examples of materials that make up the first sealing part 4 include glass, silver solder, solder, inorganic adhesive, rubber, and plastic.

[0035] [Second sealing section 5] The second sealing portion 5 seals the space between the housing 3 and the second end portion 1b of the reactor 1. The second sealing portion 5 holds the second end portion 1b of the reactor 1. The second sealing portion 5 has a through hole through which the second end portion 1b of the reactor 1 is inserted.

[0036] Since the second space P2 side of the second sealing part 5 is exposed to high-temperature liquid fuel and water vapor, the constituent material of the second sealing part 5 must have resistance to the chemical load of high-temperature liquid fuel and resistance to water vapor. Examples of constituent materials for the second sealing part 5 include glass, silver solder, solder, and inorganic adhesives. Rubber and plastic are not suitable as constituent materials for the second sealing part 5.

[0037] [Flow-stopping section 6] The flow-stopping section 6 is positioned between the reactor 1 and the housing 3. The flow-stopping section 6 is positioned between the third space P3 and the fourth space P4. The flow-stopping section 6 isolates the third space P3 from the fourth space P4. The flow-stopping section 6 has a through hole through which the central part of the reactor 1 is inserted.

[0038] The flow-stopping section 6 suppresses the flow of swept gas from the third space P3 to the fourth space P4. The flow-stopping section 6 only needs to be able to suppress the flow of swept gas and does not need to seal the space between the reactor 1 and the housing 3. The flow-stopping section 6 can be made of, for example, expanded graphite, rubber, or resin.

[0039] (Placement of Reactor 1) Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of XX in Figure 1. In Figure 2, a cross-section along the radial direction perpendicular to the central axis AX of the housing 3 is shown.

[0040] Multiple reactors 1 are housed in a housing 3. While two or more reactors 1 are sufficient, this embodiment describes a case where six reactors 1 are provided, as shown in Figure 2.

[0041] The six reactors 1 are arranged within the housing 3 around a central axis AX. Each reactor 1 is positioned on a similarity line CL that is similar to the contour of the inner circumferential surface T0 of the housing 3. Specifically, the center C1 of the circular cross-section of each reactor 1 lies on the similarity line CL. The similarity line CL is an example of "a single similarity line" according to the present invention. It is preferable that each reactor 1 is positioned at equal intervals on the similarity line CL. In this embodiment, since six reactors 1 are provided, the circumferential spacing of the centers C1 of each reactor 1 is 60 degrees.

[0042] Here, the shortest distance D1 between the housing 3 and each reactor 1 is equal to that of each other. That is, each reactor 1 is located at the same distance from the housing 3. Therefore, the reaction heat generated during the conversion reaction can be released equally from each reactor 1 to the outside via the housing 3, thus homogenizing the thermal environment of each reactor 1. Consequently, differences in conversion efficiency and lifespan among the reactors 1 can be suppressed.

[0043] The shortest distance D1 is the distance between the inner circumferential surface T0 of the housing 3 and the outer circumferential surface T1 of each reactor 1. In this embodiment, the inner circumferential surface T0 of the housing 3 is circular, and the outer circumferential surface T1 of each reactor 1 is also circular.

[0044] The concept that shortest distances D1 are equivalent encompasses not only the case where all shortest distances D1 have the same value, but also the case where the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​included in all shortest distances D1 is 30% or less of the distance D0. When the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the shortest distances D1 is 30% or less of the distance D0, the thermal environment of each reactor 1 can be considered substantially uniform.

[0045] The value of the distance D0 from the central axis AX to the similarity line CL is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, between 81 mm and 874 mm. The value of the diameter T0 of the inner circumferential surface of housing 3 is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, between 351 mm and 2468 mm. The value of the diameter T1 of the outer circumferential surface of each reactor 1 is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, between 90 mm and 360 mm. The value of the shortest distance D1 is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, between 50 mm and 180 mm.

[0046] (Detailed configuration of Reactor 1) Next, the detailed configuration of the reactor 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The six reactors 1 described above have the same configuration as each other. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the reactor 1. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of AA in Figure 3. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of BB in Figure 3. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of CC in Figure 4.

[0047] As shown in Figure 3, the reactor 1 is formed in a monolithic shape. A monolith is a shape having multiple holes that penetrate in the longitudinal direction, and is a concept that includes honeycomb. The longitudinal direction is parallel to the central axis AX of the housing 3 described above.

[0048] The reactor 1 has a first end 1a and a second end 1b. The first end 1a is the portion from one end to 2 / 5 of the way along when the reactor 1 is divided into 5 equal parts in the longitudinal direction. The second end 1b is the portion from the other end to 2 / 5 of the way along when the reactor 1 is divided into 5 equal parts in the longitudinal direction. In this embodiment, the first end 1a of the reactor 1 is the inlet side for the raw material gas, and the second end 1b of the reactor 1 is the outlet side for the liquid fuel.

[0049] The reactor 1 has a first end face S1, a second end face S2, and a side face S3. The first end face S1 is the end face on the side of the first end 1a. The second end face S2 is the end face on the side of the second end 1b. The first end face S1 is provided on the opposite side of the second end face S2. The side face S3 is connected to the outer edges of the first end face S1 and the second end face S2.

[0050] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the reactor 1 comprises a porous support 10, a catalyst 20, a separation membrane 30, a first seal portion 40, and a second seal portion 50.

[0051] The porous support 10 is a cylindrical body extending in the longitudinal direction of the reactor 1. The porous support 10 is made of a porous material.

[0052] As porous materials, ceramic materials, metal materials, resin materials, etc., can be used, with ceramic materials being particularly preferred. As aggregates for ceramic materials, for example, alumina (Al2O3), titania (TiO2), mullite (Al2O3·SiO2), celben and cordierite (Mg2Al4Si5O 18 At least one of the following can be used. As an inorganic binder for the ceramic material, at least one of titania, mullite, easily sinterable alumina, silica, glass frit, clay minerals, and easily sinterable cordierite can be used. However, the ceramic material does not need to contain an inorganic binder.

[0053] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the porous support 10 has a number of first channels 11 and a number of second channels 12.

[0054] Each first channel 11 is formed along the longitudinal direction of the reactor 1, as shown in Figure 6. Each first channel 11 is a space on the impermeable side of the separation membrane 30. The raw material gas flows through each first channel 11. Each first channel 11 is a through-hole. Each first channel 11 opens to the first end face S1 and the second end face S2 of the reactor 1, respectively. Each first channel 11 has a raw material gas inlet e1 formed at the first end face S1 and a liquid fuel outlet e2 formed at the second end face S2. The catalyst 20 is placed inside each first channel 11. The number, position, and shape of the first channels 11 can be changed as appropriate.

[0055] Each second channel 12 is a space on the permeate side of the separation membrane 30. A sweeping gas flows through each second channel 12 to sweep away the water vapor that has permeated through the separation membrane 30. An inert gas (e.g., nitrogen) or air can be used as the sweeping gas. The number, position, and shape of the second channels 12 can be changed as appropriate.

[0056] Here, each second channel 12 is composed of multiple cells 13, an inlet slit 14, and an outlet slit 15, as shown in Figures 4 and 5.

[0057] Multiple cells 13 are arranged in a row along the short direction (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) of the reactor 1. Each cell 13 is formed along the longitudinal direction of the reactor 1, as shown in Figure 6. Both ends of each cell 13 are sealed by first and second eye seals 17, 18. The first and second eye seals 17, 18 can be made of the porous material described above.

[0058] The inlet slit 14 is formed at the second end 1b of the reactor 1, as shown in Figure 3. The inlet slit 14 is formed along the short direction of the reactor 1, as shown in Figure 4. The inlet slit 14 penetrates a plurality of cells 13. Both ends of the inlet slit 14 open to the side surface S3. The inlet slit 14 has a pair of inlets d1 that open to the side surface S3. The pair of inlets d1 are one end of the second flow path 12 in the longitudinal direction. Each of the pair of inlets d1 is connected to the third space P3. Each of the pair of inlets d1 is an example of the "first opening" according to the present invention.

[0059] The outflow slit 15 is formed at the first end 1a of the reactor 1, as shown in Figure 3. The outflow slit 15 is formed along the short direction of the reactor 1, as shown in Figure 5. The outflow slit 15 penetrates a plurality of cells 13. Both ends of the outflow slit 15 open to the side surface S3. The outflow slit 15 has a pair of outlets d2 that open to the side surface S3. The pair of outlets d2 are the other ends of the second flow path 12 in the longitudinal direction. Each of the pair of outlets d2 is connected to the fourth space P4. Each of the pair of outlets d2 is an example of the "second opening" according to the present invention.

[0060] The catalyst 20 is placed in each first channel 11. Preferably, the catalyst 20 is filled in each first channel 11, but it may also be arranged in layers on the surface of the separation membrane 30. The catalyst 20 promotes the conversion reaction from the raw material gas to the liquid fuel shown in formula (1) above.

[0061] The catalyst 20 can be any known catalyst suitable for the conversion reaction to the desired liquid fuel. Examples of catalysts 20 include metal catalysts (copper, palladium, etc.), oxide catalysts (zinc oxide, zirconia, gallium oxide, etc.), and catalysts that combine these (copper-zinc oxide, copper-zinc oxide-alumina, copper-zinc oxide-chromium oxide-alumina, copper-cobalt-titania, and catalysts modified with palladium).

[0062] The separation membrane 30 is supported by the porous support 10. The separation membrane 30 surrounds the first channel 11. The separation membrane 30 is positioned between the first channel 11 and the second channel 12.

[0063] The separation membrane 30 allows water vapor, one of the products of the conversion reaction from the raw material gas to liquid fuel, to pass through. This allows the reaction equilibrium in equation (1) to be shifted towards the product side by utilizing the equilibrium shift effect.

[0064] The separation membrane 30 has a density of 100 nmol / (s·Pa·m). 2 It is preferable to have a water vapor permeability coefficient of ) or higher. The water vapor permeability coefficient can be determined by known methods (see Ind.Eng.Chem.Res.,40,163-175(2001)).

[0065] The separation membrane 30 preferably has a separation coefficient of 100 or more. The larger the separation coefficient, the easier it is for water vapor to permeate, and the less likely it is for components other than water vapor (such as hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and liquid fuel) to permeate. The separation coefficient can be determined by a known method (see Fig. 1 in "Separation and Purification Technology 239 (2020) 116533").

[0066] An inorganic membrane can be used as the separation membrane 30. Inorganic membranes are preferred because they have heat resistance, pressure resistance, and water vapor resistance. Examples of inorganic membranes include zeolite membranes, silica membranes, alumina membranes, and composite membranes thereof. In particular, LTA-type zeolite membranes with a molar ratio (Si / Al) of silicon (Si) to aluminum (Al) of 1.0 to 3.0 are preferred because they have excellent water vapor permeability.

[0067] As shown in Figure 3, the first seal portion 40 covers the first end face S1 and a portion of the side face S1 of the porous support 10. The first seal portion 40 prevents the raw material gas from entering the porous support 10. As shown in Figure 6, the first seal portion 40 is formed so as not to block the inlet e1 of the first flow path 11. The first seal portion 40 covers the first eye seal portion 17. The first seal portion 40 can be made of glass, metal, rubber, resin, or the like.

[0068] As shown in Figure 3, the second seal portion 50 covers the second end face S2 and a portion of the side surface S1 of the porous support 10. The second seal portion 50 prevents liquid fuel from entering the porous support 10. As shown in Figure 6, the second seal portion 50 is formed so as not to block the outlet e2 of the first flow path 11. The second seal portion 50 covers the second eye seal portion 18. The second seal portion 50 can be made of glass, metal, rubber, resin, or the like.

[0069] (Method for synthesizing liquid fuel using reactor 1) The liquid fuel synthesis method using reactor 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 6.

[0070] The liquid fuel synthesis method using reactor 1 includes a step of flowing a raw material gas through a first channel 11 provided on the non-permeable side of the separation membrane 30, while flowing a sweep gas through a second channel 12 provided on the permeable side of the separation membrane 30.

[0071] The raw material gas flows into the first channel 11 from the inlet e1. In the first channel 11, water vapor is generated together with the liquid fuel according to equation (1) above. The synthesized liquid fuel flows out from the outlet e2 of the first channel 11. One of the products, water vapor, sequentially permeates the separation membrane 30 and the porous support 10 and moves to the second channel 12.

[0072] The swept gas flows in through the inlet d1 of the inlet slit 14, and then flows from the inlet slit 14 into the cell 13. Next, the swept gas that has flowed from the inlet slit 14 into the cell 13 takes in water vapor that has permeated through the separation membrane 30 and absorbs the reaction heat generated by the conversion reaction as it flows through the cell 13 toward the outlet slit 15. The swept gas that reaches the outlet slit 15 is discharged from the outlet d2 of the outlet slit 15.

[0073] As shown in Figure 6, in this embodiment, in a side view of the separation membrane 30, the direction of the sweep gas flowing through the second channel 12 is opposite to the direction of the raw material gas flowing through the first channel 11. That is, the sweep gas flowing through the second channel 12 flows in a direction opposite to the raw material gas flowing through the first channel 11.

[0074] However, in a side view of the separation membrane 30, the direction of the sweep gas flowing through the second channel 12 may be the same as the direction of the raw material gas flowing through the first channel 11. That is, the sweep gas flowing through the second channel 12 may flow in a direction parallel to the raw material gas flowing through the first channel 11.

[0075] 2. Second Embodiment Next, a reactor module 2a according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the reactor module 2a.

[0076] The reactor module 2a according to the second embodiment differs from the reactor module 2 according to the first embodiment in terms of the housing configuration and the arrangement of the reactor. Therefore, the differences will be mainly described below.

[0077] The reactor module 2a comprises multiple reactors 1 and housings 3a.

[0078] Multiple reactors 1 are housed in a housing 3a. The configuration of the reactors 1 is as described in the first embodiment.

[0079] Multiple reactors 1 include multiple first reactors 1x and multiple second reactors 1y. The multiple first reactors 1x are arranged radially inside the multiple second reactors 1y. The number of first reactors 1x may be two or more, but in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, the case in which eight first reactors 1x are provided will be described. The number of second reactors 1y may also be two or more, but in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, the case in which sixteen second reactors 1y are provided will be described.

[0080] The eight first reactors 1x are arranged within the housing 3a around a central axis AX. Each first reactor 1x is positioned on a first similarity line CL1 that is similar to the contour of the first inner surface T10 or the second inner surface T20 of the housing 3. Specifically, the center C11 of the circular cross-section of each first reactor 1x lies on the first similarity line CL1. It is preferable that each first reactor 1x is positioned at equal intervals on the first similarity line CL1. In this embodiment, since eight first reactors 1x are provided, the circumferential spacing of the centers C11 of each first reactor 1x is 45 degrees.

[0081] The 16 second reactors 1y are arranged within the housing 3a around a central axis AX. Each second reactor 1y is positioned on a second similarity line CL2 that is similar to the contour of the first inner surface T10 or the second inner surface T20 of the housing 3. Specifically, the center C12 of the circular cross-section of each second reactor 1y lies on the second similarity line CL2. It is preferable that each second reactor 1y is positioned at equal intervals on the second similarity line CL2. In this embodiment, since 16 second reactors 1y are provided, the circumferential spacing of the centers C12 of each second reactor 1y is 22.5 degrees.

[0082] The external shape of the housing 3a is cylindrical with respect to the central axis AX. However, the housing 3a is formed in a hollow manner. Therefore, the housing 3a is a hollow cylinder. The housing 3a has a first inner surface T10 and a second inner surface T20. The first inner surface T10 is located inside the second inner surface T20 in the radial direction. The second inner surface T20 surrounds the first inner surface T10.

[0083] Here, the shortest distances between the housing 3a and each reactor 1 are equal. Specifically, the first shortest distance D11 between the housing 3a and each first reactor 1x is equal, the second shortest distance D12 between the housing 3a and each second reactor 1y is equal, and the first shortest distance D11 and the second shortest distance D12 are equal. In other words, each reactor 1 is located at an equal distance from the housing 3a.

[0084] Therefore, the reaction heat generated during the conversion reaction can be evenly released from each reactor 1 to the outside via the housing 3a. Specifically, the reaction heat from each first reactor 1x is released into the hollow space of the housing 3a via the first inner surface T10, and the reaction heat from each second reactor 1y is released into the outer space of the housing 3a via the second inner surface T20. This makes it possible to equalize the thermal environment of each reactor 1, thereby suppressing differences in conversion efficiency and lifespan among the reactors 1.

[0085] The first shortest distance D11 is the distance between the first inner circumferential surface T10 of the housing 3a and the outer circumferential surface T11 of each first reactor 1x. In this embodiment, the first inner circumferential surface T10 of the housing 3a is circular, and the outer circumferential surface T11 of each first reactor 1x is also circular.

[0086] The second shortest distance D12 is the distance between the second inner surface T20 of the housing 3a and the outer surface T12 of each second reactor 1y. In this embodiment, the second inner surface T20 of the housing 3a is circular, and the outer surface T12 of each second reactor 1y is also circular.

[0087] In this embodiment, the concept that the shortest distances are equivalent to each other includes not only the case where all first and second shortest distances D11,12 have the same value, but also the case where the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​included in all first and second shortest distances D11,12 is 15% or less of the distance D20. If the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the first and second shortest distances D11,12 is 30% or less of the distance D20, the thermal environment of each reactor 1 can be considered to be substantially uniform.

[0088] The value of the distance D10 from the central axis AX to the first similarity line CL1 is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, 140 mm or more and 874 mm or less. The value of the distance D20 from the central axis AX to the second similarity line CL2 is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, 280 mm or more and 1414 mm or less. The value of the diameter of the first inner surface T10 of the housing 3a is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, 90 mm or more and 360 mm or less. The value of the diameter of the second inner surface T20 of the housing 3a is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, 750 mm or more and 3548 mm or less. The values ​​of the first and second shortest distances D1 and D2 are not particularly limited, but can be, for example, 50 mm or more and 180 mm or less.

[0089] (Modified examples of the embodiment) Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0090] [Example 1] In the first and second embodiments described above, the external shape of the reactors 1 and 1a is cylindrical, but it may be elliptical.

[0091] [Differentiation 2] In the first and second embodiments described above, the outer shape of the housings 3 and 3a is cylindrical, but it may be elliptical.

[0092] [Difference 3] In the first and second embodiments described above, the inner circumferential surfaces of the housings 3 and 3a were assumed to have a circular cross-section, but they may have an elliptical cross-section. If the cross-section of the inner circumferential surface of the housing is elliptical, the similarity lines will also be elliptical.

[0093] In the case where multiple reactors 1 are arranged on a single similarity line as in the first embodiment described above, and the similarity line is elliptical, the shortest distances being equivalent to each other includes not only the case where all the shortest distances are the same value, but also the case where the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​included in all the shortest distances is 30% or less of half the length of the major axis of the similarity line.

[0094] In the case where multiple reactors 1 are arranged on multiple similarity lines as in the second embodiment described above, and the similarity lines are elliptical, the shortest distances being equivalent to each other includes not only the case where all shortest distances are the same value, but also the case where the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​included in all the shortest distances is 15% or less of half the length of the major axis of the longest similarity line.

[0095] [Differentiation Example 4] In the first and second embodiments described above, the outer surface of the reactor 1 is assumed to have a circular cross-section, but it may have an elliptical cross-section.

[0096] [Difference 5] In the first and second embodiments described above, monolithic reactors 1 and 1a were described as examples of reactors, but the configuration of the reactor is not limited thereto. For example, the reactor may be a reactor other than a monolithic type. Typical examples of reactors other than monolithic types include tube-type reactors (for example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-008940), but the reactor is not limited thereto. In the tube-type reactor, the first channel 11 and the second channel 12 each open to the surface of the reactor (including both end faces and sides).

[0097] [Modification 6] In the first and second embodiments described above, the third space P3, which is an example of a "non-outflow side space," and the fourth space P4, which is an example of an "outflow side space," are separated by a flow-stopping section 6. However, the separation structure between the "non-outflow side space" and the "outflow side space" is not particularly limited.

[0098] For example, as shown in Figure 8, an "outflow-side space" isolated from the "non-outflow-side space" may be provided for each reactor 1. The reactor module 2a comprises a plurality of reactors 1, a housing 3, a first sealing part 4, a second sealing part 5, a flow-stopping part 6, a first air-resistance member 7, a second air-resistance member 8, and a discharge pipe 9. Note that in Figure 8, the same numbering is used for functionally similar components as in Figure 1.

[0099] The configuration of reactor 1 is as described in the above embodiment.

[0100] The housing 3 is divided into first to fourth spaces P1 to P4 by a first sealing portion 4, a second sealing portion 5, and a flow-stopping portion 6. The housing 3 has a raw material gas supply port 3a, a liquid fuel outlet 3b, a sweep gas supply port 3c, and a sweep gas outlet 3d.

[0101] The first sealing portion 4 seals the space between the housing 3 and the first end portion 1a of the reactor 1. The first sealing portion 4 isolates the third and fourth spaces P3 and P4, respectively, from the first space P1. The first sealing portion 4 is composed of a fixing plate 41, a flange 42, and a sealing member 43. Note that the flange 42 and sealing member 43 are provided for each reactor 1.

[0102] The fixing plate 41 is connected to the inner circumferential surface of the housing 3. The fixing plate 41 has an opening for attaching the flow-stopping portion 6. The flange 42 is an annular member fixed to the opening of the fixing plate 41. The sealing member 43 is annular in shape and surrounds the first end portion 1a of the reactor 1. The sealing member 43 seals the gap between the flange 42 and the first end portion 1a of the reactor 1. For example, an O-ring can be used as the sealing member 43.

[0103] The second sealing portion 5 seals the space between the housing 3 and the second end portion 1b of the reactor 1. The second sealing portion 5 isolates the third and fourth spaces P3 and P4 from the second space P2, respectively. The second sealing portion 5 is composed of a fixing plate 51, a flange 52, and a sealing member 53. Note that the flange 52 and sealing member 53 are provided for each reactor 1.

[0104] The fixing plate 51 is connected to the inner circumferential surface of the housing 3. The fixing plate 51 has an opening for attaching the flange 52. The flange 52 is an annular member fixed to the opening of the fixing plate 51. The sealing member 53 is annular in shape and surrounds the second end 1b of the reactor 1. The sealing member 53 seals the gap between the flange 52 and the second end 1b of the reactor 1. For example, an O-ring can be used as the sealing member 53.

[0105] The flow-stopping section 6 is positioned between the third space P3 and the fourth space P4. The flow-stopping section 6 isolates the third space P3 from the fourth space P4. The flow-stopping section 6 is composed of a partition pipe 61, a partition plate 62, a packing 63, and a sealing member 64. A flow-stopping section 6 is provided for each reactor 1.

[0106] The partition pipe 61 is a cylindrical member attached to the opening of the fixing plate 41. The partition pipe 61 is positioned to surround the outlet d2 of the reactor 1. The partition plate 62 is an annular member positioned between the reactor 1 and the partition pipe 61. The packing 63 is an annular elastic member fixed to the outer circumference of the partition plate 62. The packing 63 seals the gap between the partition pipe 61 and the partition plate 62. The sealing member 64 seals the gap between the reactor 1 and the partition plate 62. For example, an O-ring can be used as the sealing member 64.

[0107] The first ventilation resistance member 7 is a cylindrical member that surrounds the inlet d1 of the reactor 1. Both ends of the first ventilation resistance member 7 are fixed to the partition plate 62 and the flange 52. The first ventilation resistance member 7 provides ventilation resistance to the sweep gas flowing from the third space P3 into the inlet d1 of the reactor 1. This causes a pressure loss in the sweep gas supplied from the third space P3, so that the flow rate of sweep gas flowing into the inlet d1 of each reactor 1 can be made uniform regardless of the distance from the sweep gas supply port 3c. As a result, each reactor 1 can be cooled uniformly, and the thermal environment of each reactor 1 can be made more uniform.

[0108] The second ventilation resistance member 8 is a cylindrical member that surrounds the outlet d2 of the reactor 1. Both ends of the second ventilation resistance member 8 are fixed to the partition plate 62 and the flange 42. The second ventilation resistance member 8 provides ventilation resistance to the swept gas (including water vapor) flowing out from the outlet d2 of the reactor 1 into the fourth space P4. As a result, a pressure loss occurs in the swept gas flowing out from the outlet d2, and the flow rate of the swept gas flowing through the second flow path 12 of each reactor 1 can be made uniform regardless of the distance from the manifold pipe 93, which will be described later. As a result, each reactor 1 can be cooled uniformly, and the thermal environment of each reactor 1 can be made more uniform.

[0109] Here, Figure 9 is a side view of the first air-resistance member 7 and the second air-resistance member 8. The first air-resistance member 7 has a cylindrical body 71 and a plurality of ventilation holes 72. Each ventilation hole 72 functions as an orifice. The air-resistance of the first air-resistance member 7 can be adjusted by the total opening area determined by the size and number of ventilation holes 72. The second air-resistance member 8 has a cylindrical body 81 and a plurality of ventilation holes 82. Each ventilation hole 82 functions as an orifice. The air-resistance of the second air-resistance member 8 can be adjusted by the total opening area determined by the size and number of ventilation holes 82.

[0110] As shown in Figure 9, the total opening area of ​​the first ventilation resistance member 7 is smaller than the total opening area of ​​the second ventilation resistance member 8. Therefore, the ventilation resistance of the first ventilation resistance member 7 is greater than that of the second ventilation resistance member 8. Consequently, a large ventilation resistance can be provided to the swept gas flowing from the third space P3 into the inlet d1, and the flow rate of the swept gas flowing into the inlet d1 of each reactor 1 can be made even more uniform, regardless of the distance from the swept gas supply port 3c. As a result, each reactor 1 can be cooled uniformly, and the thermal environment of each reactor 1 can be made even more uniform.

[0111] However, the reactor module 2a does not necessarily have to include one or both of the first ventilation resistance member 7 and the second ventilation resistance member 8. Also, the ventilation resistance of the second ventilation resistance member 8 may be greater than the ventilation resistance of the first ventilation resistance member 7.

[0112] The discharge pipe 9 is connected to each of the partition pipes 61. The discharge pipe 9 discharges the swept gas (including water vapor) that has flowed out of the outlet d2 of the reactor 1 into the fourth space P4 to the outside.

[0113] Here, Figure 10 is a schematic top view showing the configuration of the discharge pipe 9. As shown in Figure 10, the discharge pipe 9 has a plurality of small pipes 91, an annular pipe 92, and a manifold pipe 93. Each small pipe 91 communicates with each partition pipe 61 and the annular pipe 92. The annular pipe 92 communicates with each small pipe 91 and the manifold pipe 93. The manifold pipe 93 penetrates the housing 3. A sweep gas outlet 3d is formed at the end of the manifold pipe 93. In this way, by collecting the sweep gas flowing out from each reactor 1 into a single manifold pipe 93 and discharging it to the outside, it is possible to maintain the airtightness of the housing 3. However, the configuration of the discharge pipe 9 is not limited to that shown in Figure 10.

[0114] As shown in Figure 8, the reactor module 2a may also be equipped with a packing support PS. The packing support PS prevents the catalyst 20 from flowing out of the first flow path 11 (see Figure 6) of the reactor 1. The packing support PS covers the second end face S2 on the second end 1b side of the reactor 1.

[0115] The above describes a specific example of an isolation structure between the third space P3, an example of a "non-outflow space," and the fourth space P4, an example of an "outflow space." However, the shape and function of each component can be changed as appropriate. In this modified example, water vapor is recovered using sweep gas, but water vapor may be recovered without sweep gas by reducing the pressure in the fourth space P4 compared to the third space P3. Alternatively, the sweep gas may flow in the order of fourth space P4 → second flow path 12 → third space P3 (i.e., the reverse of the sweep gas flow shown in Figure 8).

[0116] [Difference 7] In the first and second embodiments and the first to sixth modifications described above, the separation membrane 30 is permeable to water vapor, which is one of the products of the conversion reaction from raw material gas to liquid fuel, but it is not limited to this. The separation membrane 30 may also be permeable to the liquid fuel itself, which is produced by the conversion reaction from raw material gas to liquid fuel. In this case as well, the reaction equilibrium of formula (1) above can be shifted to the product side.

[0117] Furthermore, when the separation membrane 30 allows liquid fuel to permeate, the reaction equilibrium can be shifted to the product side even when liquid fuel is produced by a reaction that does not generate water vapor (for example, 2H2 + CO₂ ⇔ CH₃OH).

[0118] [Differentiation 8] Although the above embodiments described a reactor module equipped with a reactor, the present invention is also applicable to a separation membrane module equipped with a plurality of separation filters that require heating or cooling. The separation filters have a separation membrane for separating predetermined components from a mixed fluid.

[0119] In such separation membrane modules, the separation membrane may be used at a temperature different from room temperature by heating or cooling it in order to achieve or maintain the separation membrane's performance. In this case, as in the above embodiment, by making the shortest distance between the housing and each separation filter the same, each separation filter can be heated or cooled uniformly from the outside, thereby homogenizing the thermal environment of each separation filter. Consequently, differences in separation performance and service life among the separation filters can be suppressed.

[0120] For example, a non-patent document (Microporous and Mesoporous Materials 132 (2010) 137-147) discloses that the gas permeability performance of DDR-type zeolite membranes is temperature-dependent. Furthermore, ceramic separation filters may experience thermal stress at the separation layer interface due to excessive heating or cooling, potentially leading to material failure. Therefore, if separation filters are not sufficiently heated or cooled, or are excessively heated or cooled, their separation performance will be relatively lower, or their service life will be shortened. For this reason, it is important to homogenize the thermal environment of each separation filter to the desired temperature.

[0121] Heating or cooling each separation filter can be done by heating or cooling the housing from the outside, or by introducing heated or cooled fluid into each separation filter, but is not limited to these methods. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0122] 1 Reactor 1x First Reactor 1 year Second Reactor 2,2a Reactor Module 3,3a Housing AX center axis CL similarity line CL1 1st similarity line CL2 2nd similarity line

Claims

1. Housing and A plurality of reactors arranged around a predetermined axis within the housing, Equipped with, In a cross-section along the radial direction perpendicular to the predetermined axis, the shortest distances between the housing and each of the plurality of reactors are equal to each other. The reactor has a separation membrane that allows the products of the conversion reaction from a raw material gas containing hydrogen and carbon oxide to a liquid fuel to pass through, a first channel on the non-permeable side of the separation membrane, and a second channel on the permeable side of the separation membrane. The second flow path has first and second openings that open to the surface of the reactor, The first opening is connected to the non-outflow space within the housing, The second opening is connected to the outflow side space within the housing, The non-outflow side space is isolated from the outflow side space. Reactor module.

2. The plurality of reactors are arranged on a line of similarity that is similar to the contour of the inner surface of the housing. The reactor module according to claim 1.

3. The housing is hollow, The plurality of reactors include a plurality of first reactors arranged on a first similarity line similar to the inner circumferential surface of the housing, and a plurality of second reactors arranged on a second similarity line similar to the inner circumferential surface of the housing and surrounding the first similarity line. The reactor module according to claim 1.

4. The external shape of the housing is cylindrical or elliptical with respect to the predetermined axis. The external shape of each of the aforementioned multiple reactors is cylindrical or elliptical. The reactor module according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The first ventilation resistance member is provided, which is located in the non-outflow space and surrounds the first opening of the reactor. The first ventilation resistance member provides ventilation resistance to the sweep gas flowing from the non-outflow side space into the first opening. The reactor module according to claim 1.

6. The outlet space is provided with a second ventilation resistance member that surrounds the second opening of the reactor, The second ventilation resistance member provides ventilation resistance to the swept gas flowing out from the second opening into the outflow side space. The airflow resistance of one of the first and second airflow resistance members is greater than the airflow resistance of the other of the first and second airflow resistance members. The reactor module according to claim 5.

7. Housing and Multiple separation filters, which are arranged around a predetermined axis within the housing and require heating or cooling, Equipped with, In a cross-section along the radial direction perpendicular to the predetermined axis, the shortest distance between the housing and each of the plurality of separation filters is equal to that of the others. The separation filter comprises a separation membrane for separating a predetermined component from a mixed fluid, a first channel on the non-permeable side of the separation membrane, and a second channel on the permeable side of the separation membrane. The second channel has first and second openings that open to the surface of the separation filter, The first opening is connected to the non-outflow space within the housing, The second opening is connected to the outflow side space within the housing, The non-outflow side space is isolated from the outflow side space. Separation membrane module.

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