Steam reforming of methanol, ethanol and glycerol over nickel-based catalysts-A review

Depletion of non-renewable energy sources such as coal and natural gas is paving the way to generate alternative energy sources. Hydrogen, a very promising alternative energy has the highest energy density (143 MJ/kg) compared to any known fuel and it has zero air pollution due to the formation of water as the only by-product after combustion. Currently, 95% of hydrogen is produced from non-renewable sources. Hydrogen production from renewable sources is considered a promising route for development of sustainable energy production. Steam reforming of renewable sources such as methanol, ethanol and glycerol is a promising route to hydrogen production. This review covers steam reforming of these three alcohols using Ni-based catalysts with different supports. Chemistry of the steam reforming reactions is discussed. Hydrogen yield depends on operating conditions, the Mesoporous silica nature of active metal and the catalyst support. Supports play an important role in terms of hydrogen selectivity and catalyst stability because of their basic characteristics and redox properties. Synthesis of suitable catalysts that can suppress coke formation during reforming is suggested. (C) 2019 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.