Abstract: Described herein is a highly heat integrated fuel processor assembly that can be used for hydrogen production from a fuel source. The assembly comprises a heat exchanger type integrated reformer/combustor sub-assembly 51 also including catalyst able to induce the reforming and the combustion reaction. The fuel processor also comprises a high temperature WGS reactor 52, a low temperature WGS reactor 53 and a selective CO oxidation or methanation reactor 54 so that the train of reactors can maximize hydrogen production and minimize the CO concentration of the product. The fuel processor further comprises a series of steam generators and heat exchangers that enhance the heat integration of the fuel processor. The whole fuel processor assembly or sub-assemblies can be employed for highly efficient distributed hydrogen generation.

Abstract: Described herein is a highly heat integrated steam reformer/combustor assembly that can be used in a fuel processor for hydrogen production from a fuel source. The assembly comprises a reforming section and a combustion section separated by a wall. Catalyst able to induce the reforming reactions is coated on the wall facing the reforming section. Catalyst able to induce the combustion reactions is coated on the wall facing the combustion section. A steam and fuel mixture is supplied to the reforming section where it is reformed to product hydrogen. A fuel and air mixture is supplied to the combustion section where it is combusted to supply the heat for the reformer. Catalytic combustion takes place on the combustion catalyst coated on one side of the wall while catalytic reforming takes place on the reforming catalyst coated on the other side of the wall. Heat transfer is very facile and efficient across the wall. Multiple such assemblies can be bundled to form reactors of any size.