In-situ investigation of ethanol steam reforming on Ni and Cr doped ferrites using combined X-ray absorption spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography

An ethanol steam reforming (ESR) reaction is a H2-production process that the fuel reacts with water in the presence of catalysts. The catalyst structures and active phase compositions have a role in ethanol conversion and hydrogen-production selectivity. The Fe3O4 catalysts with Ni and Cr dopants were prepared and used for the ESR. The morphology and structural property of prepared catalysts were determined by FESEM-EDS, XRD, and XAS techniques. The spinel structures were observed in Fe3O4, Ni/Cr@Fe3O4, and NiFe2O4 while the CrFe2O4 exhibited a mixture between Fe2O3 and Cr2O3 phases. The combined X-ray absorption spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography was applied to investigate the performance of prepared catalysts during temperature-programmed reduction and ESR processes. The NiFe2O4 exhibited the highest catalytic activity and stability for hydrogen production. The Ni-incorporation in spinel ferrite structure enhanced reduction efficiency of iron compounds at low temperatures and improves its catalytic activity and stability to the ESR process. Furthermore, the NiFe2O4 catalyst also exhibited the ability to regenerate during ESR process as evidenced by Xray absorption spectrum.

Automated summary

The study investigated the performance of Fe3O4 catalysts with Ni and Cr dopants in ethanol steam reforming reaction, with NiFe2O4 demonstrating the highest catalytic activity and stability for hydrogen production. The incorporation of Ni in the spinel ferrite structure enhanced reduction efficiency of iron compounds, improving catalytic activity and stability during the ESR process. Additionally, NiFe2O4 catalyst showed the ability to regenerate during the ESR process, as confirmed by X-ray absorption spectroscopy.