Improving syngas production from glycerol using plasma sprayed catalytic coatings

For improving glycerol decomposition, the catalysts having a unique structure were created by plasma spray technology at atmospheric pressure. The spraying system consists of direct current (DC) plasma generator (PG), plasmachemical reactor, systems of power supply and regulation, PG cooling, powder feeding and dosing. Mean temperature range of exhaust plasma jet 2800–3500 K has been established as optimal. Well-adhered Cu, CuO, Cr2O3, Ni, NiO, ZrO2, Al2O3 supported catalytic coatings with well adhered porous surface, excellent thermal and mechanical stability were deposited on stainless steel sheets. The regularities of coating deposition processes and main factors influencing them were determined.The practical application of prepared catalytic coatings for efficient glycerol conversion process has been realized. Obtained results showed, the catalytic coatings, deposited by plasma spray technology from active metal and metal oxide components, improve the output of synthetic hydrogen-rich gas production.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (143 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Catalytic coatings have been deposited using atmospheric plasma spray technology. ► Catalytic coatings contain Cu, CuO, Cr2O3, Ni, Al2O3, ZrO2 as the main active materials. ► The total thickness of coatings is 50–90 μm and the grain size not exceeds 5 μm. ► Catalytic reactor was manufactured and used in glycerol gasification processes. ► The most effective mode was steam reforming using Ni/ZrO2, Cu/CuO catalysts.