Simulation and Optimization of Catalytic Partial Oxidation Reforming of Butane

Butane, a high-energy-density easily liquefied gaseous fuel, is suitable for portable solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) power generation systems when combined with catalytic partial oxidation (CPOx) reforming technology. However, the long carbon chain and high carbon content of butane molecules tend to cause carbon deposition during reactions, affecting the long-term stability of catalysts. By establishing a multiphysics-coupled two-dimensional axisymmetric model, this study investigated the characteristics of partial oxidation reforming of butane at different temperatures (600–800 °C) and carbon-to-oxygen ratios (C/O = 0.6–0.9), and quantitatively analyzed the carbon deposition tendencies at various locations within the reactor. Numerical simulation results show that the system achieves optimal reaction conditions at 800 °C with C/O = 0.9, where the butane conversion efficiency and CO selectivity reach maximum values. The model reveals that carbon deposition originates primarily from methane cracking reactions, with the x = 0.5 cm position in the reactor exhibiting a minimal carbon deposition tendency. Other regions demonstrate significant carbon deposition risks under low-temperature and high C/O ratio conditions.