Low-temperature, high-pressure, catalytic, partial conversion of naphtha hydrocarbons to hydrogen

In a process for steam-reforming liquid and/or gaseous hydrocarbons over a nickel catalyst at 550 DEG to 900 DEG F. (288 DEG to 482 DEG C.) at a pressure of 150 to 1500 p.s.i.g., the surface area of the nickel is initially 20 to 60 m.2 per gram, and the space velocity is controlled so that the hydrocarbon conversion rate is 5 to 40%. A hydrogen-rich gas mixture is thus produced which is low in CH4, and the catalyst life is prolonged. Space velocities of 20 to 100 (lbs. hydrocarbon per hour per lb. catalyst), corresponding to residence times of 36 to 180 seconds, are mentioned. The feed may be mainly C5 to C10 paraffins, and unreacted hydrocarbons are condensed out of the product gas. The catalyst is preferably 40 to 60 weight per cent nickel and 60 to 40 weight per cent alumina or silica, with a promoter metal added. As catalyst activity decreases, the temperature should be increased, and with it, the pressure, to decrease carbon formation. A specific comparative example is described.