The engine reformer: Syngas production in an engine for compact gas to liquids synthesis
Methane (CH4) reforming was carried out in an internal combustion engine (an "engine reformer" We successfully produced syngas from the partial oxidation of natural gas in the cylinder of a diesel engine that was reconfigured to perform spark ignition. Performing the reaction in an engine cylinder allows some of the exothermicity to be captured as useful work. Intake conditions of 110 kPa and up to 480 degC allowed low cycle to cycle variability (COVnimep 2.4, but 1 mg/L below these equivalence ratios. These results demonstrate that the engine reformer could be a key component of a compact gas to liquids synthesis plant by highlighting the operating conditions under which high gas conversion, high H2 to CO ratios close to 2.0, and low soot production are possible.