Decomposition and reforming of methanol on Pt metals supported by carbon Norit

The decomposition and the steam reforming of methanol have been investigated on Pt-group metals supported by carbon Norit and multiwall carbon nanotubes. The decomposition of methanol on these catalysts begins around 450 K and, with the exception of less active Pd/Norit, approaches a conversion of 90–100% at 723 K. The products are H2 and CO with a very small amount of methane. The decomposition of methanol follows the first order kinetics. The activation energy of this process on Rh/Norit is 74.5 KJ/mol. The order of the efficiency of the metals based on the turnover frequency is Ru > Rh > Ir≥Pt > Pd. The selectivities of hydrogen above 623 K were 60–95%. This value increased to 97.5–99.5% using CH3OH:H2O (1:1) reacting mixture indicating the involvement of water in the reaction. No deactivation of metal/Norit catalysts was experienced at 723 K in 10 h.

Graphical abstractPt metals deposited on carbon Norit support effectively catalyze the decomposition of methanol to give H2 and CO. The selectivity values for H2 formation were more than 81% above 623 K. Adding water to methanol enhanced the H2 selectivities to 97.5–99.5%. Figure shows conversion of methanol on Pt metals supported by carbon Norit at different temperatures.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide