Designing a catalyst for hydrogen production by steam reforming of ethanol

Abstract

The negative effect of pollution on health and environment has raised the need to develop sustainable energy systems. The models based in hydrogen (H2) have been proposed as an alternative to replace fossil fuels due to their high efficiencies, no pollution generation and profitability. Besides, H2 can be obtained from renewable sources as bioethanol, which production has been promoted by Colombian government policies. However, bioethanol is currently used as fuel in internal combustion engines that generates hazardous compounds. Therefore, the conversion of ethanol to hydrogen could contribute to reduce pollution and boost the development of new businesses. Among the methods for producing H2 from ethanol, catalytic steam reforming provides high concentrations of H2 at competitive costs. Rh- and Pt- catalysts are very active in this process and basic supports contribute to mitigate deactivation. Although the process has been extensively studied, catalysts still have stability and selectivity drawbacks. Accordingly, it is necessary to design and evaluate catalytic materials that overcome these limitations, and which could be successfully integrated into extensive processes. Nota: Para consultar la carta de autorización de publicación de este documento por favor copie y pegue el siguiente enlace en su navegador de internet: http://intellectum.unisabana.edu.co/handle/10818/21697