Low temperature methanation

Topsoe's fundamental studies in the detailed reaction mechanism for methanation over transition metals have resulted in new understanding and aided the development of improved methanation catalysts.

The detailed reaction mechanism and the structure sensitivity of methanation over nickel catalysts were addressed in collaboration with the Technical University of Denmark studying catalysts, theory and single crystals.

Detailed research in the reaction mechanism for methanation has shown that dissociation of a COH radical at atomic metal step sites is the rate determining reaction step. More active experimental catalysts were found as part of this work. 

High temperature methanation

Fundamental research in catalyst sintering and stabilisation has resulted in methanation catalysts with unique thermal stability, which combined with process developments have resulted in the unique features of the Topsoe recycle methanation process - TREMP™. TREMP™ unites a highly active and stable high temperature methanation catalyst with a second-to-none heat recovery as an important step in the production of substitute natural gas (SNG) from coal, petcoke or biomass.