Methanol Cracking for Hydrogen Production

Methanol cracking hydrogen production is based on catalytic reactions that convert methanol and water into hydrogen and carbon dioxide.

The primary reaction is methanol steam reforming. Under catalytic conditions at 200-300°C, typically using copper-based catalysts, methanol (CH₃OH) reacts with water (H₂O) to generate hydrogen (H₂) and carbon dioxide (CO₂).

Chemical equation: CH₃OH H₂O → 3H₂ CO₂.

A secondary reaction involves methanol decomposition, producing hydrogen and carbon monoxide (CO). A subsequent water-gas shift (WGS) reaction converts CO into additional hydrogen, increasing overall hydrogen yield.