Solar Natural Gas Pyrolysis

Solar natural gas pyrolysis is a concept that involves using concentrated solar energy to drive the thermal decomposition of natural gas. This process can have potential applications in renewable energy production and carbon dioxide mitigation. Indeed, conventional natural gas pyrolysis requires about 7.3-11 kWh/kg of H2. Thus, it releases 3-4.6 kg of CO2 for each kg of H2 produced. Concentrating solar thermal technology can provide the energy required for natural gas pyrolysis with near zero emissions.

A solar cavity reactor is being developed at our laboratory for natural gas pyrolysis. The process consists of:

• Concentrated solar energy is focused onto the molten metal reactor, raising its temperature.

• Natural gas is introduced into the reactor.

• At high temperatures, natural gas undergoes pyrolysis, breaking down into hydrogen gas and solid carbon.

• Hydrogen gas can be collected and used as a clean fuel source.

•  Solid carbon can be captured and potentially used in various applications or sequestered to prevent its release into the atmosphere.