Catalytic performance of supported Ni catalysts in partial oxidation and steam reforming of tar derived from the pyrolysis of wood biomass

Activity test of Ni/Al2O3, Ni/ZrO2, Ni/TiO2, Ni/CeO2 and Ni/MgO catalysts in the partial oxidation (POT) and steam reforming of tar (SRT) derived from the pyrolysis of cedar wood was performed. In these activity tests, the order of the performance in both reactions was similar. Catalyst characterization was also carried out by means of H2 adsorption, TPR and XRD. From the combination of catalyst characterization with the results of the activity tests, it is suggested that the conversion of tar in POT and SRT is mainly controlled by the number of surface Ni metal. In addition, Ni/CeO2 showed smaller amount of coke than other catalysts in the POT and SRT. From the TGA profiles of active carbon mixed with catalysts, it is found that Ni/CeO2 promoted the reaction of active carbon with O2 and steam. The function of the fluidized bed reactor in the POT with respect to coke and tar amount was discussed.