Steam reforming of bio-oil derived small organics over the Ni/Al ₂O₃ catalyst prepared by an impregnation-reduction method

An impregnation-reduction method has been developed in this study to prepare the Ni/Al₂O₃ catalyst for steam reforming of bio-oil model compounds for hydrogen production. This method can alleviate the interactions between nickel species and an alumina carrier and promote metal dispersion and utilization of the nickel species, achieving a highly active, selective and stable reforming catalyst. Moreover, this method is very simple and fast. Only the impregnation and reduction steps are involved and the catalyst can be prepared in situ. In addition, coke formation in steam reforming is not uniform on a catalyst bed. Coking in the topmost catalyst layer is much more serious.