Synthesis gas

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Description: The invention relates to a continuous process for processing hydrocarbons to chemical products of value or liquid fuels. The hydrocarbons used are preferably methane, natural gas or biogas. The process also utilizes carbon dioxide which originates from stationary or nonstationary systems, the process being supported partly on the use of renewable energy sources. In addition to the use of renewable energy sources, the process, by means of a suitable process control system, is also operated partly through the utilization of process energy which is released as thermal energy in individual process steps. The process also relates to dry reforming, steam reforming and partial oxidation, which affords a defined synthesis gas which is converted in the course of the process (for example by FT (Fischer Tropsch) or methanol synthesis) to products of value. In the case of the solar-supported performance of the process, predominantly strongly endothermic reactions are performed during daytime operation, and predominantly exothermic reactions during nighttime operation, although an excess proportion of energy obtained during nighttime operation is utilized to maintain the endothermic reactions. The combined utilization of a renewable energy source and the energy formed during the operation allows the process to be performed in a very energy-efficient manner, which means that the formation of carbon dioxide in the course of the process is minimized. Utilization of carbon dioxide as a starting material in chemical processes is very unfavorable in many cases, since carbon dioxide is an exceptionally inert compound, and a high energetic barrier has to be overcome in order to react carbon dioxide. Typically, the carbon dioxide obtained in power generation or in chemical processes is considered to be a waste product and is emitted into the atmosphere. The emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, as occurs, for example, as a result of the combustion of fossil fuels in stationary systems (for example power plants) or nonstationary systems (for example automobiles), is exceptionally undesirable owing to the properties of carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas and its contribution to global climate change. The minimization of the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere is an essential aim in order to reduce or to prevent the adverse effects of climate change.