In situ DRIFT-mass spectrometry study of the ethanol steam-reforming reaction over carbonyl-derived Co/ZnO catalysts

The ethanol steam-reforming reaction was studied by in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy and on-line mass spectrometry over ZnO and a Co/ZnO catalyst prepared from impregnation of Co2(CO)8. Acetaldehyde is the primary product. The presence of cobalt favors the reforming of acetaldehyde, via the Csingle bondC scission of bidentate acetate species. Dimethyl ketone is produced as a by-product on ZnO. The roles of ZnO support and cobalt are discussed on the basis of surface species and their subsequent evolution.