Co–Ce–Al–O mesoporous catalysts for hydrogen generation via ammonia decomposition

A series of Co–Ce–Al–O mesoporous catalysts synthesised by self-assembly is shown to be efficient for the hydrogen production via ammonia decomposition reaction. The evaporation-induced self-assembly method is utilised to effectively synthesise mesoporous multicomponent catalysts with tuned composition and improved performance. The prepared catalyst materials were characterised by several techniques including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope and N2 physisorption analysis. The kinetic performance of the solid catalysts was evaluated at different temperatures and flow rates under atmospheric pressure. The optimised Co0.5Ce0.1Al0.4O(sa) catalyst remained highly active below 550 °C which represents a competitive performance among state-of-the-art catalysts. The promising performance of the catalyst and the use of nonprecious metals in the structure represent a feasible approach towards the application of ammonia as a hydrogen carrier for on-board hydrogen production.