An innovative micro-channel catalyst support with a micro-porous surface for hydrogen production via methanol steam reforming

To improve the energy conversion of a micro-channel reactor, an innovative micro-channel catalyst support with a micro-porous surface is proposed and fabricated by a layered powder sintering and dissolution method (LPSDM). The catalyst adhesion strength is analyzed by an ultrasonic vibration test and results show the catalyst has a 7 wt. % loss on the catalyst support with micro-porous surface and a 16 wt. % loss on the non-porous surface. Subsequently, the coated catalyst support is applied to methanol steam reforming for hydrogen production. Results show that the micro-channel catalyst supports with micro-porous and non-porous surfaces respectively have a hydrogen production rate of 18.07 ml/min and 9.65 ml/min at 573 K under the inlet flow rate of 30 μl/min. Compared with the catalyst support with a non-porous surface, the catalyst support with a micro-porous surface shows better catalyst adhesion and obvious advantages in hydrogen production rate and methanol conversion. •Micro-channel catalyst support with a micro-porous surface is proposed.•The structure is fabricated by layered powder sintering and dissolution method.•Porous surface can improve adhesion strength of catalyst significantly.•Porous surface enhances the hydrogen production rate and methanol conversion.