Effect of the precursor and the preparation method on copper based activated carbon catalysts for methanol decomposition to hydrogen and carbon monoxide☆

Copper oxide supported on activated carbon catalysts, obtained by various preparation techniques, are compared in methanol decomposition to hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The favourable role of copper deposition from ammonia solution of copper carbonate is proved. The effect of the preparation conditions on the catalysts activity and stability as well as on the nature of the catalytic active complexes is studied.