A highly reactive and stable Ru/Co_6-xMg_xAl ₂ catalyst for hydrogen production via methane steam reforming

Hydrogen production by methane steam reforming is an important yet challenging process. A performing catalyst will favor the thermodynamic equilibrium while ensuring good hydrogen selectivity. We hereby report the synthesis of a ruthenium based catalyst on a cobalt, magnesium, and aluminum mixed oxides supports. An interaction between cobalt and ruthenium favors the formation of smaller, well dispersed cobalt/ruthenium oxide species. The Ru/Co₆Al₂ catalyst outmatches the widely used industrial Ru/Al₂O₃ catalyst. The catalyst is stable for 100 h on stream. After test characterization shows the formation of carbon and coke deposits at trace levels. However, this does not affect the catalytic performance of the catalysts making it good candidates for industrial applications.