(582d) Comparison and Characterization of Bimetallic, Ni-Based Catalysts for Conditioning of Biomass-Derived Syngas

Due to the decreasing availability of low-cost petroleum, efforts to develop technology for transportation fuel production from alternative and renewable sources are being actively researched. Biomass is one resource that has the potential for significant fuel production based on feedstock availability. Thermochemical conversion of biomass to syngas has the potential to be used as a cost-effective and renewable source of transportation fuels, displacing petroleum consumption for this purpose. In order to efficiently utilize the carbon in the biomass and protect downstream processing equipment, the light hydrocarbons and tars in the gas stream following gasification should be converted into additional synthesis gas through steam reforming. To this end, we have designed and evaluated several Ni-based tar reforming catalysts for the conditioning of biomass derived syngas. Catalysts of varying composition are evaluated through reaction experiments for hydrocarbon steam reforming in the presence of hydrogen sulfide, using a model syngas that is representative of the composition that would be created through biomass gasification. Catalyst characterization through several techniques (including XRD, TPR, SEM/EDS, and laser Raman spectroscopy) are also discussed.