Innovation for LNG & Bio-LNG
Cryogenic photocatalytic reactor for gas treatment
Innovative technology for treating gas streams under cryogenic conditions, targeting critical contaminants such as H₂S, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and sulfur traces. These compounds adversely affect natural gas liquefaction, raise operating costs and degrade equipment such as compressors and cryogenic systems.
Industrial challenge
- •Corrosion and compressor degradation
- •Reduced efficiency in liquefaction processes
- •Higher maintenance and downtime
- •Regulatory penalties for emissions
Limits of current technologies
- •Activated carbon: rapid saturation and regeneration needs
- •Amines: high energy use and operational complexity
- •Thermal oxidation: high energy cost
Proposed solution
A modular photocatalytic reactor enabling advanced oxidation of contaminants under cryogenic, high-pressure conditions.
Operating principle
- 1Turbulent flow improves mass transfer
- 2Controlled activation of the photocatalytic process inside the reactor
- 3Oxidizing radicals remove contaminants
- 4Optical design mitigates freezing and sustains efficiency
Differentiators
| Technology | Efficiency | OPEX | Continuity | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activated carbon | Medium | High | No | Low |
| Amines | High | High | No | High |
| FDR photocatalysis (proposed) | High (estimated) | Medium–low | Yes | Medium |
Applications
- ▸Liquefied natural gas (LNG) plants
- ▸Refining and petrochemicals
- ▸Biogas treatment
- ▸Hydrogen processes
Bio-LNG (renewable-origin LNG)
In biomethane and Bio-LNG chains, cleaning the gas stream before liquefaction is equally critical: impurities such as H₂S and VOCs drive efficiency losses, equipment availability issues and compliance risk. The modular photocatalytic approach applies to demanding streams on the path to pipeline-grade biomethane and its liquefaction.
This technology is an innovative option with potential to cut operating costs, improve efficiency and extend equipment life in demanding industrial environments.
Interested in integration at your LNG / Bio-LNG site?
Contact the technical team