Measurement and Characterization of a High-Temperature, Coke-Resistant Bi-functional Ni/BZY15 Water-Gas-Shift Catalyst Under Steam-Reforming Conditions

Abstract

This paper characterizes the bi-functional behavior of a unique, nano-dispersed Ni/BZY15 water-gas-shift catalyst under steam-reforming conditions. The catalyst is highly active above 500 $$^\circ$$ C and has been found to be exceptionally stable in a hydrocarbon steam reforming environment. The performance can be attributed to two features: (1) well dispersed, nano-sized Ni particles with high surface area, and (2) the ability of the redox-active BZY15 support to remove carbon from the Ni. The bi-functionality is demonstrated through a comparison of WGS activity with BZY15 alone and with a traditional $$\text {Al}_2\text {O}_3$$ support. The WGS activity is measured under a range of operating temperatures, steam-to-carbon ratios, and feed-gas flow rates. A series of elementary reaction steps are proposed to explain the bi-functionality and to provide a basis for development of a detailed reaction mechanism.