Hydrogen from Methane: Is it Possible?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the possibility of extracting hydrogen from methane, exploring various methods and their applications, including industrial production and potential uses in rocket propulsion. Participants examine both established processes and alternative approaches for hydrogen production from methane and other hydrocarbons.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that hydrogen can be extracted from methane, highlighting the presence of four hydrogen atoms per molecule.
  • One participant references a government source that discusses hydrogen production through natural gas reforming, indicating its industrial viability.
  • Another participant describes the chemical reaction involving steam and methane, presenting it as an industrial process not suitable for home production.
  • Questions are raised about the lack of hydrogen production from methane for rocket fuel, with some participants seeking clarification on its industrial usage.
  • It is noted that 95% of hydrogen in the U.S. is produced via natural gas reforming in large plants, with limited demand for hydrogen as rocket fuel.
  • Alternative methods for hydrogen extraction, such as methane pyrolysis and the use of microwave energy with catalysts, are introduced, along with references to pilot projects and potential sources of natural hydrogen.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying views on the methods of hydrogen extraction from methane, with some supporting established processes while others advocate for alternative approaches. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal method for hydrogen production and its applications.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific processes and their industrial applications, but there are unresolved questions about the demand for hydrogen in various sectors and the feasibility of alternative extraction methods.

elixer akm
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Is there any possibility of getting hydrogen from methane,since it contain 4 hydrogen atom per molecule...
 
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Yes ...involves the use of steam at high temperatures ,an industrial process , not suited for home production
CH4 + H2O → CO + 3 H2
CO + H2O → CO2 + H2

An easy way to produce at home is the reaction of aluminium and sodium hydroxide , both easily obtained.
 
So my questio is why its not used for industrial production of hydrogen...we can use it as propellant in rocket
 
elixer akm said:
why its not used

Where did you got the information that it is not used from?
 
elixer akm said:
So my questio is why its not used for industrial production of hydrogen...we can use it as propellant in rocket

Did you not read the link I gave?
 
Drakkith said:
Did you not read the link I gave?
Sorry i didnt see that ...and that's what i looking for thanks...
 
elixer akm said:
So my questio is why its not used for industrial production of hydrogen...we can use it as propellant in rocket
the link says "Today, 95% of the hydrogen produced in the United States is made by natural gas reforming in large central plants" ...

There's not a big demand for H as a rocket fuel , not many people have rockets ...used in industry to make ammonia hydrochloric acid ...
 
There are other ways to extract hydrogen from natural gas, with solid carbon as the waste product. One way is called methane pyrolysis.
Fossil fuels are a potentially abundant source of hydrogen, which can be separated from natural gas with solid carbon as the waste product. The process is called methane pyrolysis. Can also work on any other hydrocarbon including waste plastic. Chemical company BASF has a pilot plant in Germany, see https://tinyurl.com/2hk8tzzv Another approach is to heat catalysts with microwave energy in the presence of natural gas. Go to the 29:10 mark in the following video: There are other approaches as well. Finally, it appears that hydrogen is trapped in the Earth's crust and can be drilled out. If such natural hydrogen is abundant, this would probably be the cheapest source of hydrogen. See Cheers !

Reference: https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/mining-waste-for-cheaper-hydrogen-fuel-production.1006917/
 

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