High-temperature Water-Gas Shift catalysts for hydrogen enrichment of a gas produced by biomass steam gasification

To improve the hydrogen content of a biomass steam gasification syngas, Water-Gas Shift Fe/CeO2 catalysts supported on ceramic foams were developed. The impregnation of ceria as washcoat led to an increase in the support surface area (BET) and to the formation of well-dispersed iron particles (XRD and TPR) by iron oxide impregnation. Catalytic tests were performed at atmospheric pressure with minor pressure drops, under a gas mixture similar to that produced at the gasifier outlet. A satisfactory CO conversion and a large increase in H-2 content were reached by adjusting the operating parameters of the WGS and the catalysts' composition. After-test characterizations indicated in situ catalysts activation with no over-reduction and a positive action of ceria on iron dispersion and sintering prevention.(C) 2015 Academie des sciences. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.