Stability of a NiAl2O4 Derived Catalyst in the Ethanol Steam Reforming in Reaction-Regeneration Cycles: Effect of Reduction Temperature

The catalyst regeneration is still a challenge to make the ethanol steam reforming (ESR) process feasible for sustainable H2 production. NiAl2O4 spinel derived catalysts are highly active and selective ESR, but they require avoiding irreversible deactivation ensure their regeneration. Their stability depends on structure, herein we report different Ni/Al2O3-NiAl2O4 obtained upon reduction of at 700, 750, or 850 °C. were tested in ESR reaction-regeneration cycles, with reaction 600 °C by coke combustion followed corresponding temperature. fresh, spent, regenerated characterized using X-ray diffraction, N2 physisorption, temperature programmed oxidation, scanning electron microscopy. due Ni volatilization particle fragmentation. These phenomena prompted high filamentous carbon deposition favored Al2O3 content catalyst. 700–750 range optimum controlling content, increasing NiAl2O4/Al2O3 ratio resulting show period partial reversible change formation mechanism reaching pseudo-stable state yield 40% reproducible performance successive cycles.