Recent progress on catalyst development in biomass tar steam reforming: toluene as a biomass tar model compound

Scientists are currently focusing on eco-friendly and non-polluting fuels, and the production of H-2 from biomass has recently garnered attention. Valorization of biomass via catalytic gasification has been proposed as a potential solution to the environmental problems associated with CO2 emissions and global warming. Nonetheless, the process generates tar as a by-product, which poses numerous difficulties for the reaction process. Recently, steam reforming has become a promising method for tar conversion since steam potentially contributes more H-2 to the reaction. However, the reaction is endothermic and hence requires the use of a catalyst. This leads to the global challenge which is designing an affordable anti-coking sintering resistance catalyst. This review reports on advances made in the development of catalytic biomass tar reforming, focusing mainly on toluene as the biomass tar model compound. Recent developments in the toluene catalytic steam reforming, reaction pathways, catalyst deactivation studies, and catalyst development were comprehensively reviewed. In addition, the functions of active sites, support, and promoter in the performance of toluene steam reforming were discussed concurrently. The review concluded with an insight into the prospects and challenges of biomass tar reforming technology, as well as a few recommendations for future catalyst development.

Automated summary

Scientists are currently focusing on the production of eco-friendly fuels, and the conversion of biomass into H-2 has gained attention. Catalytic gasification of biomass to overcome environmental issues has been proposed, but the process generates tar as a by-product, posing challenges. Steam reforming has emerged as a promising method for tar conversion due to its potential to provide more H-2, but it requires a catalyst. The review highlights recent advancements in catalytic biomass tar reforming, with a focus on toluene as the model compound, along with discussions on reaction pathways, catalyst deactivation, and future prospects.