Characterization of monolithic catalysts used for ethanol steam reforming

Fuel cells (FCs) produce electricity with high efficiency and are widely discussed for mobile and stationary applications. In order to provide fuel gas to the FC a hydrogen infrastructure has yet to be established. However, FC systems based on liquid hydrocarbons as fuel are a feasible alternative option to pressurized hydrogen. Among these, ethanol is a promising renewable energy source for FCs. The intermediate steps of steam reforming of ethanol are based on reaction mechanisms which are severely affected by the catalyst and its working conditions. The knowledge of the catalyst performance, selectivity and deactivation behavior by coke formation in different operating conditions, is key for the
operation of a combined reformer – fuel cell system. This work describes the experimental set-up for the characterization of monolithic catalysts used for ethanol steam reforming, which contributes to the successful operation of a reformer – fuel cell system.