XPS OF A STEAM REFORMING NIAL2O4 CATALYST

An XPS study of the behaviour of a Ni-αAl2O3 catalyst for a methane-steam reforming reaction was undertaken. The combined information from binding energy shifts and intensities is discussed in terms of the oxidation state of the Ni atoms in the fresh, used and reduced catalyst. Accumulations of Si and Pb were detected on the surface of the used catalyst, Si originating from the packing in the preheating zone in the reactor and Pb from the corrosion of a lead-containing valve by distilled water used to produce steam. © 1974.