Development of a bifunctional catalyst for dimethyl ether steam reforming with CuFe2O4 spinel as the metallic function

Abstract

This study aims at optimizing the composition of the bifunctional catalyst with CuFe2O4 spinel metallic function for the steam reforming of DME (SRD). The γ-Al2O3 obtained by calcination of boehmite at 550°C proves to be the most suitable acid function, given that it provides high activity for DME hydrolysis and avoids hydrocarbon formation in the 300–400°C range. Furthermore, the optimum mass ratio between CuFe2O4 and γ-Al2O3 functions is 1/1 at 350°C, since it allows obtaining the highest DME conversion and H2 yield with suitable catalyst stability and mechanical resistance.