Towards a molecular understanding of deactivation issues in methane reforming catalysts
Lead Research Organisation:
Keele University
Department Name: Institute Env Physical Sci & App Maths
Abstract
This research proposal brings together a grouping of specialists in surface chemistry, heterogeneous catalysis, solid state chemistry, infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and inelastic neutron scattering spectroscopy to identify the critical factors responsible for maintaining hydrogen yields in methane reforming catalysts. Ormerod has already prepared, and partially characterised, a number of methane reforming catalysts that display a wide range of performance, in terms of hydrogen selectivity and operational lifetime. Whereas the standard formulations display the expected catalyst deactivation characteristics, some of the modified catalysts exhibit excellent hydrogen selectivity that can be maintained over extended periods of time, i.e. minimal deactivation is observed. A workplan is presented whereby the research team will develop a mechanistic understanding of why the 'good' catalysts favour high hydrogen selectivity and avoid the carbon laydown processes, that lead to the formation of surface oligermic species and, ultimately, catalyst deactivation. This multi-disciplinary and multi-institutional research proposal has direct connections to energy requirements of the UK chemical industry and, moreover, targets key areas of the science base as highlighted in the recent Whiteside's report and the EPSRC's Research Priorities and Opportunities document.
People |
ORCID iD |
Robert Ormerod (Principal Investigator) |
Publications
Silverwood IP
(2011)
Experimental arrangements suitable for the acquisition of inelastic neutron scattering spectra of heterogeneous catalysts.
in The Review of scientific instruments
Silverwood IP
(2012)
Application of inelastic neutron scattering to studies of CO2 reforming of methane over alumina-supported nickel and gold-doped nickel catalysts.
in Physical chemistry chemical physics : PCCP
Silverwood IP
(2010)
Quantification of surface species present on a nickel/alumina methane reforming catalyst.
in Physical chemistry chemical physics : PCCP
Silverwood I
(2010)
Persistent species formed during the carbon dioxide reforming of methane over a nickel-alumina catalyst
in Catalysis Today
McFarlane A
(2013)
The application of inelastic neutron scattering to investigate the steam reforming of methane over an alumina-supported nickel catalyst
in Chemical Physics
Laycock CJ
(2011)
Biogas as a fuel for solid oxide fuel cells and synthesis gas production: effects of ceria-doping and hydrogen sulfide on the performance of nickel-based anode materials.
in Dalton transactions (Cambridge, England : 2003)
Laycock C
(2009)
Improving the Sulphur Tolerance of Nickel Catalysts for Running Solid Oxide Fuel Cells on Waste Biogas
in ECS Transactions
Description | Development of new methodology for studying the carbonaceous species formed on the surface of catalysts and new insight into mechanisms of industrially important catalytic processes. Development of an increased understanding of important catalytic mechanisms and the deactivation of catalysts. |
Exploitation Route | Use of the new methodologies developed to study surface species. Increased understanding of chemical reaction pathways on catalyst surfaces and deactivation mechanisms of catalysts due to carbon deposition and sulphur poisoning |
Sectors | Chemicals,Energy,Environment |
Description | This research led to significant non-academic impact in terms of the development of new methodology for studying industrial hydrocarbon reforming processes and characterising the catalyst species. This has been taken up by the chemical industry and catalyst manufacturers. Also development of new methodology for studying materials. Significant environmental impact |
First Year Of Impact | 2008 |
Sector | Chemicals,Energy,Environment |
Impact Types | Societal,Economic |
Description | SASOL Technology UK Limited |
Amount | £20,000 (GBP) |
Funding ID | F-T Catalysts |
Organisation | Sasol Technology |
Department | SASOL Technology UK Limited |
Sector | Private |
Country | United Kingdom |
Start | 01/2010 |
End | 06/2011 |
Description | SASOL Technology UK Limited |
Amount | £20,000 (GBP) |
Funding ID | F-T Catalysts |
Organisation | Sasol Technology |
Department | SASOL Technology UK Limited |
Sector | Private |
Country | United Kingdom |
Start | 01/2010 |
End | 06/2011 |