Effective parameters for DME steam reforming catalysts for the formation of H2 and CO

Recently, DME has received attention as a clean fuel and is now considered an alternative fuel for diesel engines. DME diesels need de-NOx catalysts such as LNT (Lean NOx Trap) and SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) systems. DME is an attractive source of hydrogen because it can be stored easily and is a good transportation fuel. Hydrogen and CO enriched gas as a reductant was used with the LNT catalyst in order to reduce NOx emissions. The steam reforming catalyst of DME was used to formation of hydrogen. It has been reported that Cu-based catalysts have high selectivity and activity in the steam reforming of DME. This research used 600 cPsi cordierite as a catalyst, which was coated with copper. The catalysts were made via a sol–gel and impregnation methods. The formation of H2 and CO under the prepared catalysts was tested by a model gas. Experimental parameters were considered; the space velocity (SV) and concentrations of H2O, O2, and CO2 were evaluated. The Cu 30%/γ-Al2O3 catalyst from the sol–gel method exhibited high and stable activity in the production of hydrogen from the steam reforming of DME. Both DME conversion and the selectivity of hydrogen were affected by SV and the concentrations of H2O, O2, and CO2.