State of the Art of Methanol Reforming for Hydrogen Generation

Green hydrogen is the energy carrier set in the roadmap to achieve the net zero target. However, hydrogen as the future energy vector, either in compressed gaseous form or liquefied form, demands a complete overhaul of storage and transportation infrastructure at a global scale. Methanol is one of the commercially viable hydrogen carriers that can overcome the infrastructure challenges associated with the storage and transportation of hydrogen. As a sustainable hydrogen carrier, methanol must be reformed to hydrogen prior to the point of usage. This review begins with a detailed discussion on thermocatalytic methanol reforming, catalysts, operating conditions, and the associated challenges for both stationary and mobility applications. An in-depth analysis of the existing commercial methanol reformers available for on-board and onsite hydrogen generation is also presented. The current state of the research-level photo- and electroreforming as a possible alternative to thermocatalytic reforming is reviewed and concludes with the future prospects for methanol reforming. Methanol as a sustainable hydrogen carrier could overcome the challenges associated with GH2 and LH2. But for hydrogen generation, methanol must be reformed before point of use. This review article highlights the current state of the art of methanol reforming technologies, the existing commercial methanol reformers available for on-board and onsite hydrogen generation, and concludes research-level photoreforming as possible alternatives. image