Steam reforming of biofuels for the production of hydrogen-rich gas

The scientific community recognizes hydrogen as a potential future replacement for fossil fuels that may satisfy world energy demand. Hydrogen-fuelled energy systems prove to be cleaner, more reliable and efficient, with beneficial effects on energy and environmental security. Hydrogen fuel obtained via steam reforming of biofuels could be valuable as a clean energy carrier based on renewable energy sources. In this chapter, key issues relating to steam reforming of biofuels for hydrogen production are discussed in relation to different feedstocks: liquid and solid biofuels and natural gas. The distinctions between existing reforming technologies and newly developed ones are discussed, along with improvements involving membranes.