Methanol Reforming Processes for Fuel Cell Applications

Hydrogen production through methanol reforming processes has been stimulated over the years due to increasing interest in fuel cell technology and clean energy production. Among different types of methanol reforming, the steam reforming of methanol has attracted great interest as reformate gas stream where high concentration of hydrogen is produced with a negligible amount of carbon monoxide. In this review, recent progress of the main reforming processes of methanol towards hydrogen production is summarized. Different catalytic systems are reviewed for the steam reforming of methanol: mainly copper- and group 8-10-based catalysts, highlighting the catalytic key properties, while the promoting effect of the latter group in copper activity and selectivity is also discussed. The effect of different preparation methods, different promoters/stabilizers, and the formation mechanism is analyzed. Moreover, the integration of methanol steam reforming process and the high temperature-polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs) for the development of clean energy production is discussed.

Automated summary

The production of hydrogen through methanol reforming processes, especially steam reforming, has attracted significant interest due to its ability to produce high concentrations of hydrogen with minimal carbon monoxide. Different catalytic systems, preparation methods, and integration with high temperature-polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells are being actively studied in this field.