S.G. Sanches

Bio: S.G. Sanches is an academic researcher from Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro. The author has contributed to research in topics: Catalysis & Steam reforming. The author has an hindex of 3, co-authored 5 publications receiving 76 citations.

Influence of aging time on the microstructural characteristics of a Cu/ZnO-based catalyst prepared by homogeneous precipitation for use in methanol steam reforming

Abstract: Nanocrystalline Cu–ZnO-based catalysts were successfully synthesized via a homogeneous precipitation method. Four aging times were used to prepare the catalysts (1, 3, 12 and 24 h) to study the influence on their textural, structural and catalytic properties. The samples were characterized by N2 adsorption, powder X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, H2 temperature-programmed desorption and transmission electron microscopy, and the samples were applied to the steam reforming of methanol. The crystallinity and purity of the aurichalcite phase precursor was enhanced after 3 h of aging. Structural changes were observed in the calcined catalysts as the aging time increased. A decreased CuO crystallite size was produced at longer aging times, which enhanced the CuO dispersion and Cu–ZnO interactions. These factors affected the catalytic activity. The catalyst aged for 24 h showed the highest methanol conversion, and a correlation between the structure and activity was verified.

Methanol steam reforming for hydrogen generation via conventional and membrane reactors: A review

Abstract: In the recent years, hydrogen has gained a considerable interest as an energy carrier useful for various applications and, particularly, for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) supply. Nevertheless, PEMFCs require high purity hydrogen as a feeding fuel, which shows some limitations regarding storage and transportation. Therefore, to overcome these problems, the in situ hydrogen generation has made attractive both alcohols and hydrocarbons steam reforming reaction. Among other fuels, methanol is an interesting hydrogen source because it is liquid at ambient conditions, possesses relatively high H/C ratio, low reforming temperature (200–300 °C) and it is also producible from biomass. Meanwhile, there is a comprehensive literature about inorganic membrane reactors utilization for hydrogen generation via methanol steam reforming reaction. This review illustrates the earlier state of the art from an experimental point of view about hydrogen production from methanol reforming performed in both conventional and membrane reactors. Furthermore, a short overview about methanol reforming catalysts as well as a discussion on the impact of methanol steam reforming process via inorganic membrane reactors to produce hydrogen for PEMFCs supply is given.

Catalytic Reforming of Oxygenates: State of the Art and Future Prospects.

Abstract: This Review describes recent advances in the design, synthesis, reactivity, selectivity, structural, and electronic properties of the catalysts for reforming of a variety of oxygenates (e.g., from simple monoalcohols to higher polyols, then to sugars, phenols, and finally complicated mixtures like bio-oil). A comprehensive exploration of the structure–activity relationship in catalytic reforming of oxygenates is carried out, assisted by state-of-the-art characterization techniques and computational tools. Critical emphasis has been given on the mechanisms of these heterogeneous-catalyzed reactions and especially on the nature of the active catalytic sites and reaction pathways. Similarities and differences (reaction mechanisms, design and synthesis of catalysts, as well as catalytic systems) in the reforming process of these oxygenates will also be discussed. A critical overview is then provided regarding the challenges and opportunities for research in this area with a focus on the roles that systems of ...