(403b) Development of CFB Process and Catalyst to Gasify Plastic and Biomass Wastes for Sorption Enhanced H2 Production

This study proposes a carbon-negative hydrogen production pathway through the development of a sorption-enhanced gasification process integrated with a calcium looping system. The research centers on the design, fabrication, and validation of a circulated fluidized bed (CFB) reactor optimized for the gasification of mixed feedstocks, including non-food biomass and waste plastics. Calcium oxide (CaO), derived from industrial or natural waste sources, will serve as a solid sorbent to enable in-situ CO₂capture via reversible carbonation–calcination reactions. In parallel, metallic catalysts such as nickel or else will be employed to facilitate reforming and water–gas shift reactions, thereby maximizing hydrogen production. The integration of CO₂ adsorption and catalytic reforming is expected to significantly enhance hydrogen yield and purity while reducing net carbon emissions. The project will involve experimental studies to analyze the hydrodynamic behavior, reaction kinetics, and thermal stability of the sorbent–catalyst system within both fixed-bed and fluidized bed configurations. By utilizing biomass and plastic waste as target feedstocks, this research aims to develop a scalable, energy-efficient, and environmentally sustainable hydrogen production platform that contributes to global carbon neutrality and circular economy objectives.