Abstract

--- - Aqueous phase reforming (APR) of four polyols (ethylene glycol, glycerol, erythritol and sorbitol) was studied over a bimetallic Pt/Pd catalyst supported on mesoporous carbon in the temperature range between 200 degrees C and 225 degrees C. Addition of formic acid was studied for a potential industrial application, which involves upstream reactive extraction of hemicelluloses. - APR of all polyols resulted in high levels of hydrogen production, which could be even improved by a temperature increase and addition of formic acid. Selectivity to alkanes was similar for most of the polyols with methane and ethane being the most prominent product among alkanes. - The liquid phase displayed presence of significant amounts of methanol and propane diols. Analysis of the liquid products suggests a strong interrelation between the reaction pathways in APR of tested polyols.