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Abstract

Processes for converting methane and/or other hydrocarbons to synthesis gas (i.e., a gaseous mixture comprising H₂ and CO) are disclosed, in which at least a portion of the hydrocarbon(s) is reacted with CO₂. At least a second portion of the methane may be reacted with H₂O (steam), thereby improving overall thermodynamics of the process, in terms of reducing endothermicity (ΔH) and the required energy input, compared to “pure” dry reforming in which no H₂O is present. Such dry reforming (reaction with CO₂ only) or CO₂-steam reforming (reaction with both CO₂ and steam) processes are advantageously integrated with Fischer-Tropsch synthesis to yield liquid hydrocarbon fuels. Further integration may involve the use of a downstream finishing stage involving hydroisomerization to remove FT wax. Yet other integration options involve the use of combined CO₂-steam reforming and FT synthesis stages (optionally with finishing) for producing liquid fuels from gas streams generated in a number of possible processes, including the hydropyrolysis of biomass.

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First Claim