Analytical Approach to estimate and Predict the CO2 Reforming of CH4 in a Dielectric Barrier Discharge

CO2 reforming of CH4 to syngas was investigated in a coaxial dielectric barrier discharge reactor immersed in an oil bath. An analytical model was suggested to estimate and predict the reaction phenomena. The model had input parameters as predictor variables (applied voltage, ratio of CH4/CO2, and total flow rate in the feed), output parameters as observed variables, the molar flow rates of reactants (CH4, CO2, CO, H-2, and by-products), and energy efficiencies. More than 70% of the output parameters variance could be explained by the input parameter. The model for the CO2 reforming of CH4 in a dielectric barrier discharge reactor would be useful to optimize the experiments. A comparison between input parameters suggests that the reaction should be performed under high total flow rate or low applied voltage to obtain greater energy efficiency; whereas at high applied voltage and total flow rate, the reaction obtains a greater absolute amount of reactant conversion and products, but lower energy efficiency.