Optimization of a multi-tube annular membrane methanol reformer for fuel cell-powered vehicles

A new multi-tube annular membrane methanol reformer (MTAMMR) integrated with the preheating system under sufficient consideration of the effect of heat integration presented. The MTAMMR consists of a bundle of annular membrane methanol reformers (AMMRs). The AMMR is a concentric annular cylinder to carry out the endothermic methanol steam reforming (MSR) and the exothermic preferential oxidation (PROX) reactions in the outer and the inner tubes, respectively. With the aid of the Pd-Cu membrane covered on the surface, the counter-current type AMMR under the proper operating conditions can ensure the high methanol conversion as well as the high hydrogen yield. Through a series of optimization algorithms for minimizing the weight of the MTAMMR as well as minimizing the total energy (electricity) demand of the preheating system, the lightest weight of MeOH-to-H2 processor is probably 95.5 kg. Finally, the conceptual methanol-electric hybrid power configuration demonstrated to promote the possibility of the MeOH-to-H2 processor applied for a hybrid power vehicle.