Studies of the molybdenum migration from Ni/Mo catalysts in the presence of steam

The extent of molybdenum loss was examined as a function of the initial Mo concentration in the Ni-Mo steam reforming catalysts and a partial pressure of water in the reaction mixtures. It was found that molybdenum loss at high temperature (similar to 800 degreesC) is prevented by the presence of even small content of hydrogen in the mixture. The kinetic equation describing the rate of Mo loss from the studied catalysts is presented. The possible application of Ni-Mo catalysts resistant to coking in the hydrocarbon steam reforming is discussed. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.