Study of the effect of Mn on PtMn/C catalyst in aqueous phase reforming of ethylene glycol

This study aims to investigate the surface structure of bimetallic catalysts supported on carbon nanofibers (CNF) during aqueous phase reforming (APR) of ethylene glycol (EG) and their structural evolution induced with time on stream. The hydrothermal conditions during APR lead to changes in metal oxidation state, re-dispersion and dealloying of the catalyst nanoparticles. Thus, operando XAS and XRD studies will be conducted to determine the local environment, dispersion and metal phase of Pt and Mn in samples prepared by different synthesis methods. The experiments are expected to give insight into the catalyst changes during the reaction, which may lead to deactivation. It will provide crucial information used in the rational design of APR catalysts to improve the catalyst activity, selectivity, and stability.