Overview of hydrogen production technologies from biogas and the applications in fuel cells

Traditionally, H-2 is a large-scale production by the reforming process of light hydrocarbons, mainly natural gas, used by the chemical industry. However, the reforming technologies currently used encounter numerous technical/scientific challenges, which depend on the quality of raw materials, the conversion efficiency and security needs for the integration of H-2 production, purification and use, among others. Biogas is a high-potential versatile raw material for reforming processes, which can be used as an alternative CH4 source. The production of H-2 from renewable sources, such as biogas, helps to largely reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Within this context, the integration of biogas reforming processes and the activation of fuel cell using H-2 represent an important route for generating clean energy, with added high-energy efficiency. This work expounds a literature review of the biogas reforming technologies, emphasizing the types of fuel cells available, the advantages offered by each route and the main problems faced. Copyright (C) 2013, Hydrogen Energy Publications, LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.