Improving the Stability of Ru-Doped Ni-Based Catalysts for Steam Methane Reforming during Daily Startup and Shutdown Operation

In this study, a Ru-doped Ni pellet-type catalyst was prepared to produce hydrogen via steam methane reforming (SMR). A small amount of Ru addition on the Ni catalyst improved Ni dispersion, thus affording a higher catalytic activity than that of the Ni catalyst. During the daily startup and shutdown (DSS) operations, the CH4 conversion of Ni catalysts significantly decreased because of Ni metal oxidation to NiAl2O4, which is not reduced completely at 700 & DEG;C. Conversely, the oxidized Ni species in the Ru-Ni catalyst can be reduced under SMR conditions because of H-2 spillover from the surface of Ru onto the surface of Ni. Consequently, the addition of a small quantity of Ru to the Ni catalyst can improve the catalytic activity and stability during the DSS operation.

Automated summary

A Ru-doped Ni pellet-type catalyst was prepared for hydrogen production via steam methane reforming (SMR). The addition of a small amount of Ru improved Ni dispersion and increased catalytic activity. The Ni catalysts experienced a significant decrease in CH4 conversion during daily startup and shutdown (DSS) operations due to incomplete reduction of NiAl2O4 formed by Ni metal oxidation. However, the oxidized Ni species in the Ru-Ni catalyst could be reduced under SMR conditions, resulting in improved catalytic activity and stability during DSS operation.