Microwave-Assisted Reforming of CH4 with CO2 over Activated Carbon

In this paper the reforming of CH₄ with CO₂ was conducted in the integrated microwave-assisted heating system, with the wood-derived activated carbon as catalyst. At first, the reactant gases conversions of CH₄ decomposition, CH₄/CO₂ reforming and CO₂ gasification were compared, and the temperature rising characteristic of the activated carbon was tested. And also the influence of operating parameters, including temperature, the CH₄/CO₂ ratio and gas flow rate, on the CH₄ and CO₂ conversions was evaluated. By comparing CH₄ decomposition, CH₄/CO₂ reforming and CO₂ gasification, it can be concluded that the presence of CO₂ is suitable for maintaining the catalytic activity of activated carbon. And the activated carbon is demonstrated to be an excellent microwave receptor. An increase in the CH₄ and CO₂ conversions can be achieved through increasing temperature, decreasing the CH₄/CO₂ ratio or reducing gas flow rate.