Catalysts research for hydrogen production from steam reforming of ethanol over Ni-Fe/γ-Al₂O₃

A series of Fe-promoted Ni-Fe/γ-Al₂O₃ catalysts were synthesized in precipitation method . The structure characteristics of the catalysts were measured by XRD, TPR and SEM. It was revealed that the addition of Fe could replace the Ni in NiAl₂O₄ spinel which exist in form of NiO crystal. Meanwhile, it could reduce the reduction temperature and conglobation of catalysts. Catalyst performance testing results revealed that 15%Ni-10%Fe/γ-Al₂O₃ showed the best yield and selectivity of hydrogen. It could reach 4.71% and 68.78% respectively at 650°C. 30h durability test over 15%Ni-10%Fe/γ-Al₂O₃ catalyst at 500°C showed that hydrogen selectivity maintained about 65% with no by-products such as ethylene in the entire stage.