Hydrogen production via methane decomposition on Raney-type catalysts

The catalytic decomposition of methane into hydrogen and carbon was studied on La2O3 doped Ni and Ni–Cu Raney-type catalysts. The activity and stability of the catalysts were assessed by comparing the experimental conversions with the calculated equilibrium conversions for each set of experimental conditions, and the maximum conversions with the conversions at the end of (at least) 5 h tests, respectively. Improved stability of La2O3 doped catalysts was ascribed to an electronic promotion effect. There is an optimum load of the promoter, which provides for extended periods of stable catalyst operation. The carbon deposits consist of carbon nanofibers and multiwall carbon nanotubes. The La2O3 doped Ni–Cu Raney-type catalysts presented in this work are remarkably efficient for the production of hydrogen by methane decomposition.