(407c) Molecular Insight into Carbon Poisoning of Ni Surfaces: Dft-Guided Formulation of Carbon-Tolerant Steam Reforming Catalysts | AIChE

(407c) Molecular Insight into Carbon Poisoning of Ni Surfaces: Dft-Guided Formulation of Carbon-Tolerant Steam Reforming Catalysts

Authors 

Linic, S. - Presenter, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Nikolla, E. - Presenter, University of Michigan
Schwank, J. - Presenter, University of Michigan


Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations were utilized to study the surface chemistry of carbon atoms on Ni. These studies demonstrated that there is a strong thermodynamic driving force to form sp2-bonded carbon networks. It is believed that these extended carbon structures diminish the hydrocarbon reforming activity of Ni catalysts. We have further utilized DFT to search for Ni-containing alloy catalysts that might be more carbon-tolerant than monometallic Ni, i.e., that have a lower propensity to form the extended carbon networks. These studies have yielded a promising alloy formulation. We have tested the alloy under steady-state conditions in the steam reforming of various hydrocarbons. The reactor studies support the predictions of the first principles calculations.