Low Temperature Steam Reforming of Ethanol Over Supported Noble Metal Catalysts

The catalytic activity of M/Al₂O₃ catalysts for the reaction of steam reforming of ethanol has been investigated in the temperature range of 300–450 °C. It has been found that the catalytic performance varies in the order of Pt > Pd > Rh > Ru, with Pt exhibiting high activity and selectivity toward hydrogen production, as well as long term stability at low temperatures. It is shown that the reaction occurs in a bifunctional manner, with the participation of both the dispersed metallic phase and the support. Ethanol interacts strongly with the Al₂O₃ carrier, promoting mainly ethanol dehydration, while in the presence of Pt, catalytic activity is shifted toward lower temperatures. Ethanol decomposition and dehydrogenation reactions dominate at low temperatures, while reforming, water-gas shift and methanation contribute significantly to product distribution.