Combined Steam-Carbon Dioxide Reforming of Methane: Modeling Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)

In this paper, combined steam-carbon dioxide reforming of methane (CSDRM) on a nickel-based catalyst is investigated by using response surface methodology (RSM). Models were developed based on central composite design (CCD), conducted on methane, carbon dioxide conversion, and H₂/CO ratio with feed ratio, flow rate, and temperature. In Analysis of variance analysis (ANOVA), good agreement was shown between predicted data from RSM model and experimental data as well. This indicated, high adjusted R² (R square, coefficient of determination), F-value over 0.75, and p-value less than 0.05. CH₄ and CO₂ conversion were considerably improved at higher reaction temperature, because of the endothermic nature of the CSDRM. Also, H₂/CO ratio was affected by feed ratio. The minutiae of development of the model, testing, etc. is presented in this study.