Hydrogen production through methane reforming processes using promoted-Ni/mesoporous silica: A review

The catalyst's performance for hydrogen production is strongly dependent on the proper selection of active metals, supports, and promoters. Nickel catalysts can also be a strong and cost-effective succession. Mesoporous supports containing basic sites on the surface are able to suppress carbon deposition and greater stability to the catalyst. Therefore, in this short review, we focus on hydrogen production through reforming processes especially steam and dry reforming and the nickel catalysts’ performance for hydrogen production. Particularly focusing on effective parameters including mesoporous supports (SBA-15, MCM-41, KIT, and SBA-16) and promoters. Since the trapping of active metals into the MCM-41 mesostructure with smaller pores makes them appreciated for catalytic applications, therefore we highlight the recent literature achievements on DRM by promoted/unpromoted Ni catalysts over MCM-41 support for hydrogen production. In this review, attention will be given to different catalyst particles size and the effect of metal dispersion on mesoporous silica supports for enhancing catalytic activities in a comprehensive and comparative manner.