Nano Ru/CNTs: a highly active and stable catalyst for the generation of COx-free hydrogen in ammonia decomposition

Very small Ru nanoparticles on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were prepared by means of impregnation and H2-reduction. The CNTs-supported Ru nanoparticles are highly active and stable in catalyzing the decomposition of ammonia for the generation of COx-free hydrogen. The modification of Ru/CNTs with potassium ions leads to a remarkable improvement in the activity. The excellent catalytic performances of Ru/CNTs and K–Ru/CNTs are related to the high dispersion of Ru, and to the high graphitization and purity of CNTs.