Microfibrous entrapped Ni/Al₂O₃ using SS-316 fibers for H₂ production from NH₃

Using a high-speed and low-cost papermaking technology combined with subsequent sintering process, sinter-locked three-dimensional microfibrous networks consisting of ∼2 vol % of 6-μm-diameter SS-316 microfibers were utilized to entrap ∼25 vol % of 100-200-μm-diameter porous Al ₂O₃ support particulates. Nickel, a most active component for ammonia decomposition, was then dispersed onto the pore surface of the entrapped Al₂O₃ support particulates by incipient wetness impregnation method. The resulting microfibrous catalysts took advantage of large void volume, entirely open structure, high heat/mass transfer, good thermal stability, and unique form factors, thereby leading to good activity for ammonia decomposition and significant reduction of overall bed weight and volume. This composite bed reactor was capable of producing 215 seem hydrogen over per cm³ bed volume with ammonia conversion of 99.5% at 650°C.