Fundamental studies of catalytic gasification: Annual report, October 1, 1987--September 30, 1988

In the past this program has investigated the role of catalysts in relatively low temperature steam gasification. New mechanisms have been demonstrated and it has been shown that combinations of alkali hydroxide with transition metal oxides form compounds which act as the true catalyst to produce mostly hydrogen and carbon dioxide. This has further been confirmed by surface science studies and by transmission electron microscopy. At the lower temperatures (/approximately/800 K) used, hydrogen and CO/sub 2/ are the products formed, but the effect of temperature and of the exact composition of the NiO/KOH catalyst that has been studied in the greatest detail on the CO/sub 2//CO ratio remains to be defined. Similarly, a clear definition of the advantages of different alkali-transition metal oxide compositions is required. In addition to the previously reported gasification results of a lignite (N. Dakota), a subbituminous (Rosebud) and bituminous (Ohio Pitt No. 8) char, an additional bituminous char (Kentucky No. 13) has been evaluated for steam gasification after impregnation with either K-Ca or K-Ni oxides. An analysis of this char is presented in comparison with two of the other chars. 8 figs., 3 tabs.