Methanol Steam Reforming for Hydrogen Production over Ni-Based Catalysts: State-Of-The-Art Review and Future Prospects

With increasing global emphasis on environmental sustainability, the reliance on traditional energy sources such as coal, natural gas, and oil are encountering significant challenges. H2, known for its high energy content and pollution-free usage, emerges as a promising alternative. However, despite the great potential of H2, approximately 95 % of hydrogen production still depends on non-renewable resources. Hence, the shift towards producing H2 from renewable sources, particularly through methods like steam reforming of methanol - a renewable resource - represents a beacon of hope for advancing sustainable energy practices. This review comprehensively examines recent advancements in efficient H2 production using Ni-based catalysts in methanol steam reforming (MSR) and proposes the future prospects. Firstly, the fundamental principles of MSR technology and the significance in clean energy generation are elucidated. Subsequently, the design, synthesis techniques, and optimization strategies for enhancing the catalytic performance of Ni-based catalysts are discussed. Through the analysis of various catalyst compositions, structural adjustments, surface active sites, and modification methods, the review uncovers effective approaches for boosting the activity and durability of MSR reactions. Moreover, the review investigates the causes of deactivation in Ni-based catalysts during MSR reactions and proposes strategies for extending catalyst lifespan through fine design and optimization of operation parameters. Lastly, this review outlines the current research challenges and anticipates the future trends and potential applications of Ni-based catalysts in MSR hydrogen production. By offering a comprehensive critical analysis, this review serves as a valuable reference to enhance MSR hydrogen production efficiency and catalyst performance.