Process sensitivity analysis and techno-economic assessment of hydrogen sulphide to hydrogen via H2S methane reformation

Abstract In this work, hydrogen sulphide methane reformation is analysed for the hydrogen production from H2S. The process allows the H2S valorisation recovering its intrinsic hydrogen content. For the technology scale up to the industrial level, a process simulation is set up in Aspen Plus V11®. Its performances are evaluated as a function of the CH4/H2S inlet molar ratio. Material and energy balances are presented for each considered case. A detailed process economic assessment is provided to identify the best operating conditions. Results in terms of hydrogen cost show the strong system's dependence on the CH4/H2S inlet molar ratio. If opportunely optimized, the present process can be competitive with respect to the traditional methane steam reforming, also considering that no direct CO2 emissions are produced. The advantages of the H2S methane reformation are discussed, to pave the way for future process optimization.