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Performance Evaluation of Pressure Swing Adsorption for Hydrogen Separation from Syngas and Water–Gas Shift Syngas

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Listed:
  • Aleksander Krótki

    (Institute of Energy and Fuel Processing Technology, Zamkowa 1, 41-803 Zabrze, Poland)

  • Joanna Bigda

    (Institute of Energy and Fuel Processing Technology, Zamkowa 1, 41-803 Zabrze, Poland)

  • Tomasz Spietz

    (Institute of Energy and Fuel Processing Technology, Zamkowa 1, 41-803 Zabrze, Poland)

  • Karina Ignasiak

    (Institute of Energy and Fuel Processing Technology, Zamkowa 1, 41-803 Zabrze, Poland)

  • Piotr Matusiak

    (KOMAG Institute of Mining Technology, Pszczyńska 37, 44-101 Gliwice, Poland)

  • Daniel Kowol

    (KOMAG Institute of Mining Technology, Pszczyńska 37, 44-101 Gliwice, Poland)

Abstract

Hydrogen (H 2 ) is a key energy carrier and industrial feedstock, with growing interest in its production from syngas and water–gas shift (WGS) syngas. Effective purification methods are essential to ensure high hydrogen purity for various applications, particularly fuel cells, chemical synthesis, or automotive fuel. Pressure swing adsorption (PSA) has emerged as a dominant separation technology due to its efficiency, scalability, and industrial maturity. This study reviews PSA-based hydrogen purification and proposes an experimental framework based on literature insights. Key process variables influencing PSA performance, such as adsorbent selection, cycle sequences, pressure conditions, and flow configurations, are identified. The proposed experimental methodology includes breakthrough adsorption studies and PSA process evaluations under dynamic conditions, with variations in column configuration, adsorption pressure (8–9 bar), and process concept (Berlin and Linde Gas). The purpose of the review is to prepare for syngas separation by the selected process in terms of hydrogen recovery and purity using ITPE’s advanced technological facilities. The findings are expected to contribute to improving PSA-based hydrogen purification strategies, offering a pathway for enhanced industrial-scale hydrogen production. This work provides a foundation for bridging theoretical PSA principles with practical implementation, supporting the growing demand for clean hydrogen in sustainable energy systems.

Suggested Citation

  • Aleksander Krótki & Joanna Bigda & Tomasz Spietz & Karina Ignasiak & Piotr Matusiak & Daniel Kowol, 2025. "Performance Evaluation of Pressure Swing Adsorption for Hydrogen Separation from Syngas and Water–Gas Shift Syngas," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(8), pages 1-42, April.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:8:p:1887-:d:1630272
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Anna Król & Monika Gajec & Jadwiga Holewa-Rataj & Ewa Kukulska-Zając & Mateusz Rataj, 2024. "Hydrogen Purification Technologies in the Context of Its Utilization," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-38, August.
    2. Subraveti, Sai Gokul & Pai, Kasturi Nagesh & Rajagopalan, Ashwin Kumar & Wilkins, Nicholas Stiles & Rajendran, Arvind & Jayaraman, Ambalavan & Alptekin, Gokhan, 2019. "Cycle design and optimization of pressure swing adsorption cycles for pre-combustion CO2 capture," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 254(C).
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    4. Jithin, E.V. & Raghuram, G.K.S. & Keshavamurthy, T.V. & Velamati, Ratna Kishore & Prathap, Chockalingam & Varghese, Robin John, 2021. "A review on fundamental combustion characteristics of syngas mixtures and feasibility in combustion devices," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 146(C).
    5. Jia Yen Lai & Lock Hei Ngu & Siti Salwa Hashim, 2021. "A review of CO2 adsorbents performance for different carbon capture technology processes conditions," Greenhouse Gases: Science and Technology, Blackwell Publishing, vol. 11(5), pages 1076-1117, October.
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