Hiflux heat exchangers have been internally coated for use in process applications where a thermally-driven reaction is accelerated by the presence of a catalytic coating. This could reduce the size, cost, complexity and pressure loss compared with coupling a heat exchanger to a separate vessel containing a catalyst. The Hiflux heat exchanger can withstand high process temperatures and pressures, enabling many potential applications including:
Conversion of Ammonia to Hydrogen (Ammonia Cracker)
Ammonia can be used as a zero-carbon storage mechanism for hydrogen gas, with a greater density of hydrogen molecules per unit volume than either liquified or compressed H2. Renewable hydrogen can currently be converted into ammonia efficiently at large scale and distributed safely. However, local conversion back to H2 and N2 requires the addition of heat and, for optimal conversion at reasonable temperatures, exposure to a catalyst-coated surface. Hiflux heat exchangers, which have been internally coated with catalyst, are able to meet both of these requirements.
Conversion of Methane/Steam to Hydrogen (Methane Steam Reformer)
A catalyst-coated Hiflux heat exchanger could also be used in a steam methane reforming (SMR) process, where methane (usually as part of natural gas) is converted in the presence of steam into hydrogen gas and carbon monoxide. When this carbon is stored, the resulting hydrogen is classed as ‘blue hydrogen’, as the carbon will not contribute to global warming.
Catalytic Oxidation of Particulates for Emissions Control in Heat Recovery Applications
Where heat is being recovered from exhaust gas for use in a process, pollution reduction legislation often requires some level of catalytic after-treatment. A Hiflux heat exchanger with an appropriate catalyst coating could both recover energy and oxidize particulates, improving the thermal efficiency of processes as well as reducing particulate emissions.