Rh(1%)@CexZr1-xO2-Al2O3 nanocomposites: active and stable catalysts for Ethanol Steam Reforming

Rh(1%)@CexZr1 12xO2\u2013Al2O3 nanocomposites have been investigated as active and thermally stable catalysts for ethanol steam reforming. Preformed Rh nanoparticles have been efficiently protected from deactivation/sintering by a porous layer of nanocomposite oxides. Chemisorption and activity data confirm the good accessibility of the metal phase to the reaction mixture. No appreciable deactivation is observed after 160 h of reaction at 873 K. The ceria\u2013zirconia mixed oxides favour reforming reactions, reduce coke formation and facilitate its removal. The alumina component is important to stabilize the ceria\u2013zirconia mixed oxides, preventing their sintering