Syngas by the Partial Oxidation of Natural Gas

This review evaluates the generation of syngas (H₂:CO ratio ~ 2:l) by the partial oxidation of natural gas and compares the economics thereof with those for the steam reforming process. Because the steam reforming process produces a syngas of H₂:CO ratio ~ 3:1, we have assumed that the surplus H₂ is separated by a hollow fiber membrane process.

Our evaluation indicates that partial oxidation would be the preferred route when the surplus H₂ from the steam reforming process has to be disposed of at fuel value. Under these conditions, the product value of syngas by partial oxidation is lower than steam reforming. The partial oxidation process is also slightly less capital intensive.