Catalytic Steam Reforming of Biomass Tar Model Compound Using Nickel and Cobalt Catalysts Supported on Palm Kernel Shell Char

This study aims to explore the use of biomass-derived char-supported catalyst as a cost effective catalyst for the reforming of biomass-derived tar compounds. Char-supported nickel and cobalt catalysts were prepared using palm kernel shell (PKS) as the char precursor. The performance of the catalysts in catalysing the steam reforming of biomass tar was evaluated at temperatures between 700 and 950 degrees C using toluene as the model compound of tar. Results of this study indicate that the PKS-derived char-supported catalysts have higher catalytic activity than the PKS char for the steam reforming of toluene. The catalytic activity of char and char-supported catalysts decreased beyond 850 degrees C due likely to the loss of alkali and alkaline earth metal (AAEM) species, the sintering of metal particles and the deposition of carbon. Comparison of fresh and spent catalysts provides some information regarding the changes of catalyst properties during the steam reforming of toluene.