Core–Shell Al2O3-Supported Ni for High-Performance Catalytic Reforming of Toluene as a Model Compound of Tar

Core–shell Al2O3-supported nickel catalyst was prepared and the products were tested in fixed-bed reactor for biomass tar steam reforming. In our work, toluene is treated as tar destruction model compound. The products were characterized by the means of H2-TPR, XRD, BET, TEM and SEM. Comparing with the nanoparticles alumina-supported counterparts, the catalyst showed not only superior activity, more yields of outgases but also better stability. The stable shells provide the unique environment around active sites and the strong interaction between Ni and the core–shell supports seems to be responsible for the catalyst activity and stability in toluene steam reforming. The methods presented in this work can be generalized in materials design and control synthesis of other nano materials.