Carbons Formed in Methane Thermal and Thermocatalytic Decomposition Processes: Properties and Applications

Abstract

The hydrogen economy will play a key role in future energy systems. Several thermal and catalytic methods for hydrogen production have been presented. In this review, methane thermocatalytic and thermal decomposition into hydrogen gas and solid carbon are considered. These processes, known as the thermal decomposition of methane (TDM) and thermocatalytic decomposition (TCD) of methane, respectively, appear to have the greatest potential for hydrogen production. In particular, the focus is on the different types and properties of carbons formed during the decomposition processes. The applications for carbons are also investigated.

Keywords

• methane
• hydrogen
• carbon
• catalytic decomposition
• wet decomposition
• dry decomposition