Membrane reactors for hydrogen production from coal

Abstract Advanced membrane reactor technologies provide the opportunities for low-cost, high efficiency, and low-emission hydrogen production from coal. This chapter focuses on the state of the art of hydrogen- and CO 2 -selective membranes and membrane reactors for hydrogen production from coal with CO 2 capture. First, the traditional technologies for converting coal to hydrogen are introduced. Compared with traditional reactors, the advantages and opportunities of membrane reactors are discussed. Subsequently, the recent progress in membrane reactors for the conversion of gasifier syngas and separation of hydrogen or CO 2 is illustrated. Finally, possible future development of membrane reactor technologies is outlined.