In situ DRIFT-mass spectrometry study of the ethanol steam-reforming reaction over carbonyl-derived Co/ZnO catalysts

The ethanol steam-reforming reaction was studied by in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy and on-line mass spectrometry over ZnO and a Co/ZnO catalyst prepared from impregnation of CO2(CO)(8). Acetaldehyde is the primary product. The presence of cobalt favors the reforming of acetaldehyde, via the C-C scission of bidentate acetate species. Dimethyl ketone is produced as a by-product on ZnO. The roles of ZnO support and cobalt are discussed on the basis of surface species and their subsequent evolution. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.