Methane decomposition kinetics on unfunctionalized alumina surfaces

The pyrolytic conversion of methane for the production hydrogen and carbon was investigated over nonporous α-Al2O3 surfaces in range 900–1300 °C. Two devices were used: i) a single particle reactor to determine deposition rate at various temperatures ii) fixed bed which both measured. It observed that 1000 °C below, selectivity towards (and hydrogen) initially low fresh (e.g. 38% 250 s reaction time), increasing 100% time. Methane constant 20% during this period. These observations point presence an activation process formation from intermediates products benzene) pyrolysis. A temperature dependent maximum loading observed. When reached, also stopped completely, indicating hydrogen. kinetic models derived applied. After parameterization these using data, they able predict growth CH4 as function temperature, specific area, gas composition new data set bed.