Influence of bulk composition of the intermetallic compound ZnPd on surface composition and methanol steam reforming properties

► ZnPd intermetallic compounds with different bulk composition were investigated. ► Bulk composition determines surface composition and ZnO reducibility. ► Unsupported catalysts were tested in methanol steam reforming. ► Activity and selectivity depend strongly on the Zn/Pd ratio. ► Presence of ZnO is essential for excellent catalytic properties.