Chemical looping reforming as a strategic alternative for sustainable hydrogen production from biogas: Comparative techno-economic and environmental assessment

This study investigates biogas-based chemical looping reforming (CLR) processes for sustainable hydrogen production against alternative hydrogen production methods. Six CLR configurations are assessed: chemical looping partial oxidation, steam reforming, water splitting (CLWS), CO₂ splitting (CLCS), steam reforming with hydrogen production, and dry reforming with hydrogen production, with the latter three newly developed into detailed process simulations. Results indicate CLCS achieves the highest performance in energy efficiency (48.3%), exergy efficiency (46.7%), and unit production cost (3.90 $/kg_H2). CLWS demonstrates superior environmental performance by achieving negative CO₂ equivalent emissions of −6.89 kg_CO2/kg_H2. A market condition-based analysis reveals CLR economic advantages under higher CO₂ prices and favorable renewable energy conditions. A region-based analysis shows high feasibility in energy-constrained areas with strong carbon policies. Comparative studies highlight biogas-based CLR as transitional technologies balancing economic competitiveness and environmental sustainability, positioning them as strategically viable solutions for sustainable hydrogen production.