Monolith Multilayer Catalytic Membrane for Direct Conversion of CO2- Rich Natural Gas into Syngas and Energy

The increasing demand for energy and the environmental challenges posed by CO₂ emissions necessitate the development of innovative solutions for utilizing natural gas reservoirs with high CO₂ content. In Southeast Asia, over 13 trillion cubic feet of natural gas remain undeveloped due to their high CO₂ content, reaching up to 87%. Current CO 2 separation technologies, though effective in removing CO₂, are energy-intensive and economically unfeasible. In the present work, monolith multilayer catalytic membrane is utilized to directly converting CO₂-rich natural gas permeate streams into syngas and co-generated energy. The membrane consists of a gas conversion, ion-selective and ion-conducting layers to optimize syngas production and improve energy efficiency. Experimental results show that increasing the operating temperature from 600°C to 800°C significantly enhances the conversion of methane (CH₄) and CO₂, yielding higher amounts of CO and H₂, with improved CO selectivity. Additionally, electrochemical performance evaluations demonstrate relatively higher current densities and power outputs at elevated temperatures. These findings underscore the multilayer catalytic membrane's potential to provide an economically viable and environmentally sustainable solution for converting CO₂-rich natural gas into valuable products, while also reducing CO₂ emissions. The membrane offers a promising route for syngas and energy production, contributing to the development of more efficient, low-emission energy technologies.