Vol. 337 No. 10 (2026)
DOI https://doi.org/10.18799/24131830/2026/10/5752
Development of a mathematical model of intra‑chamber processes in a syngas generator during non‑catalytic partial oxidation of methane
Relevance. Reducing the technogenic impact on the environment when developing of remote oil and gas fields requires the creation of compact and environmentally safe technologies for processing associated petroleum gas directly at the extraction site. One of the promising approaches is small‑scale methanol production based on non‑catalytic partial oxidation of methane, the key element of which is a syngas generator. Aim. To develop a physical and mathematical model of intra‑chamber processes in such a generator, enabling optimisation of its design and operating conditions to minimise harmful emissions (soot, CO₂, unreacted methane) and eliminate the use of catalysts. Methods. The model is based on the Reynolds‑averaged Navier–Stokes equations closed by the standard k‑ε turbulence model. Chemical reactions are described by two‑step global kinetics, and the turbulence‑chemistry interaction is accounted for via the Eddy Dissipation Model. Results and conclusions. Within the framework of the model, a system of equations for the two‑dimensional problem is derived, and the choice of turbulence, kinetic and heat transfer models is justified considering computational constraints. For a baseline capacity of 5000 tons of methanol per year, a material balance is calculated, showing high combustion efficiency (residual methane less than 0.1 vol. %) and practically no soot formation. The developed model can serve as a foundation for future specialised software.
For citation: Kuzmin A.M., Gashevskiy E.M. Development of a mathematical model of intra‑chamber processes in a syngas generator during non‑catalytic partial oxidation of methane. Bulletin of the Tomsk Polytechnic University. Geo Assets Engineering, 2026, vol. 337, no. 10, pp. 43–55. http://doi.org/10.18799/24131830/2026/10/5752
Keywords:
syngas generator, non‑catalytic partial oxidation of methane, intra‑chamber processes, numerical simulation, emission reduction, non‑waste production, methanol production
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