Pure Hydrogen Production via PROX over Gold Catalysts on Alumina Supported Y-Doped Ceria: Effect of Support Preparation

Gold catalysts on CeO2/Al2O3 and Y-doped CeO2/Al2O3 supports (20 wt.% CeO2 and 1 wt.% Y2O3) were synthesized. The mixed oxide supports were prepared by impregnation (IM) or by mechanical mixing (MM). The samples were characterised by BET, XRD and HRTEM/HAADF measurements. The catalytic properties in the preferential CO oxidation in hydrogen rich stream (PROX) using gas feed composition: 60% H2+ 1% CO + 1% O2 (He as balance) were estimated. The effect of supports preparation on the gold loading and its dispersion, supports features and catalytic performance was commented. The positive effect of yttrium for catalysts stability was evidenced during long run tests in PROX with CO2 and water addition to gas stream. The obtained results could be useful for the design of catalysts for CO-free hydrogen production with good PROX performance at reasonable price.