Catalytic autothermal reforming of diesel fuel for hydrogen generation in auxiliary power units

Fuel cells require hydrogen as the fuel source for generating power. Hydrogen for use in auxiliary power units is produced in a fuel processor by the catalytic reforming of hydrocarbons. The objective of this research is to analyze the autothermal reforming reactions performed on synthetic diesel fuel over a commercial catalyst. Autothermal Reforming (ATR), which is defined as a combination of steam-reforming and partial oxidation reactions blends the endothermic and exothermic reactions into a single unit. This system provides higher efficiency than other conventional processes and also a simple system design. The product composition as a function of the operating variables was studied. The stability of the catalyst and its response to the sulfur poison was investigated. From the characterization studies, it is found that the sulfur present in the feed poisons both the active metal sites and the support. A mechanism for this poisoning phenomenon and the conditions at which it can be reversed is proposed. Finally, a fundamental study involving the role played by different metals and oxides was studied. Bi-metallic catalysts exhibited superior performance compared to the commercial catalyst and their monometallic counterparts. Efficient bimetallic catalysts that resist sulfur poisoning were synthesized, tested and characterized. Surface analysis showed that the enhanced stability is due to structural and electronic effects rather than the degree of metal dispersion.