Process for generating synthesis gas using catalyzed structured packing

A process for generating synthesis gas comprising:

• introducing a reactant gas mixture comprising steam and a light hydrocarbon at a density modified inlet mass rate of 5.7 kg/m2s to 30 kg/m2s, at a first pressure, P1, and at a first temperature into a tubular reactor wherein the tubular reactor has an inlet end and an outlet end, the inlet end and the outlet end defining a length, L, therebetween, and wherein the tubular reactor comprises a tube portion having an inner surface and an outer surface, and wherein the tubular reactor comprises a catalyzed structured packing within the tube portion;
• combusting a fuel external to the tubular reactor thereby heating the outer surface of the tube portion to provide heat for reacting the reactant gas mixture;
• reacting the reactant gas mixture in the tubular reactor thereby converting a percentage of the light hydrocarbon to generate a product mixture comprising synthesis gas;
• and
• withdrawing the product mixture from the outlet end at a second pressure, P2 and at a second temperature.