Effect of support composition and metal loading on Au catalyst activity in steam reforming of methanol

Gold (Au) supported on CeO2–Fe2O3 catalysts prepared by the deposition-coprecipitation technique were investigated for steam reforming of methanol (SRM). The 3 wt% Au/CeO2–Fe2O3 sample calcined at 400 °C achieved 100% methanol conversion and 74% hydrogen yield due to a strong Ce–Fe interaction in the active solid solution phase, CexFe1−xO2. The sintering of Au particles was observed when the highest metal content of 5 wt% was registered, which worsened the SRM activity. According to the TPR and TPO analysis, it was found that the transformation of the α-Fe2O3 structure in the mixed oxides and the coke deposition were the main factors for the rapid deactivation of the catalyst.

► Au/CeO2–Fe2O3 exhibited high catalytic activity in steam reforming of methanol.
► The Ce1−xFexO2 solid solution phase was a catalytically active phase.
► The agglomeration of Au nanoparticles was introduced at high metal loading.
► Coke formation and phase transformation were found during the stability test.