Modelling of deep adsorptive desulphurization of methanol for fuel cell applications

These studies were carried out within the framework of the European FuelSOME Project (No. 101069828), which focuses on establishing a multi-fuel energy generation system based on utilization of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) and is dedicated mainly to the long-distance maritime shipping. For the SOFC stacks, the removal of sulphur contaminations from fuels is crucial as the content of sulphur  compounds is strictly limited, even to dozens of mol ppb.

The appropriate model of the adsorption column for methanol purification was elaborated. The research focused on modelling sulphur removal to achieve the required purity of methanol, then on cost analysis to optimize the proposed purification process. The obtained results are a basis for further techno-economic considerations.