Catalytic performance and in situ DRIFTS studies of propane and simulated LPG steam reforming reactions on Rh nanoparticles dispersed on composite MxOy-Al2O3 (M: Ti, Y, Zr, La, Ce, Nd, Gd) supports

Abstract

Rhodium nanoparticles dispersed on a variety of composite supports, MxOy-Al2O3 (M: Ti, Y, Zr, La, Ce, Nd, Gd), were investigated for the propane steam reforming (PSR) reaction aiming to the efficient production of hydrogen. Addition of MxOy resulted in a significant promotion of intrinsic activity which varies depending on MxOy nature with the La2O3-containing sample exhibiting optimum performance. Selectivity toward methane side-product follows the same trend with that of PSR activity implying that methane is a key reaction intermediate. In situ DRIFTS experiments demonstrated that PSR reaction proceeds via intermediate formation of CHx species which are either hydrogenated toward CH4 or interacted with OH groups yielding formates that are further decomposed to H2 and COx. Rh/10%La2O3-Al2O3 and Rh/10%Gd2O3-Al2O3 catalysts were synthesized in the form of pellets and investigated using simulated liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as feed, and proved to be promising candidates for the LPG steam reforming reaction.