Operando XAS/Raman/MS monitoring of ethanol steam reforming reaction–regeneration cycles

Abstract

The recyclability of a coked ethanol steam reforming catalyst (Co/Al₂O₃) is studied over several cycles. Oxidative regeneration burns coke, however some of the cobalt is oxidized. H₂ produced during reforming promotes self-reactivation, restoring catalyst activity. The regeneration leads to the redispersion of smaller cobalt particles as a result of the Kirkendall effect.