Catalysts for hydrogen production by steam reforming of dimethyl ether (DME)

Dimethyl ether (DME) is expected as one of clean fuels. We have been studying on DME steam reforming for hydrogen production. Copper alumina catalysts prepared by a sol-gel method produced large quantities of H2 with DME steam reforming. The reason was investigated by EDS. Copper and alumina are co-existing on the surface of the catalysts, and DME hydrolysis and methanol steam reforming occur sequentially and efficiently, and so a quick hydrogen production rate is obtained. The catalysts have been developed for practical use. The catalysts have good stability. It found that the Cu-Zn/Al2O3 catalyst prepared by the sol-gel method has the catalyst surface structure that is appropriate for the steam reforming of DME consisting of DME hydrolysis and methanol steam reforming. The further development is still need, but the catalyst has enough capability for practical use.