Influence of the shape of Ni catalysts in the glycerol steam reforming

Biomass is an alternative to replace the use of fossil fuels. Glycerol, a byproduct in the biodiesel production, can be used for obtaining hydrogen. The most efficient method for obtaining hydrogen from glycerol is the steam reforming (SR). So far all the published papers report the use of conventional catalyst. In this paper, a structured catalyst has been prepared and compared with the conventional ones (powder and spherical pellets). Results show that the structured catalyst (monolith) is more stable as formation of coke was not observed.

Graphical abstractNi structured catalyst is active and stable for the hydrogen production from steam reforming of glycerol. Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights▸ Coke formation was not observed in the structured catalyst. ▸ The blocking of the pores with carbon deactivated pellets and powder catalysts. ▸ The morphology is the responsible for the different behavior during reaction. ▸ Preparation of catalyst with high resistance to coke formation.