Nickel–molybdenum catalysts for combined solid oxide fuel cell internal steam and dry reforming

A series of supported Ni-Mo catalysts were synthesised through a deposition-co-precipitation method (DcP) and investigated in combined steam and dry reforming. The prepared Ni-Mo catalysts supported by Yttria-Stabilised Zirconia (YSZ), Gadolinium-Doped Ceria (GDC) and Ceria Stabilised Zirconia (CSZ) with improved carbon tolerance have the potential to be used as anodes in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC). These catalysts will be applied in the anode supporting layer where most of the internal reforming reaction takes place. The catalysts were compared to conventional reforming catalysts, where Al₂O₃ and TiO₂ supports are typical for reforming catalysts. The catalytic performance of the Ni-Mo catalysts according to the support materials was observed in the sequence Al₂O₃ > YSZ > TiO₂ > CSZ > GDC. Formation of Mo₂C improved catalytic activity towards the steam reforming reaction. Increasing the Mo loading to Ni catalyst improved the coke resistance properties; however, it reduced the catalytic activity.