Catalytic Properties of Cold-Rolled Ni₃(Si,Ti) Intermetallic Foils for Methanol Decomposition

Abstract

Methanol decomposition tests were carried out for the first time on cold-rolled Ni₃(Si,Ti) foils in a temperature range of 513–793 K to investigate their potential catalytic properties for hydrogen production. The catalytic activity was observed at temperatures above 713 K. At 793 K, the catalytic activity changed with the reaction time in three stages: low-activity incubation, rapid spontaneous activation and high-activity state. Surface analysis revealed an intensive formation of fine Ni particles on the foil surfaces after the second stage where rapid spontaneous activation was observed. The formation of the fine Ni particles was considered to be induced by the selective oxidation of Si in Ni₃(Si,Ti). The catalytic activity in the second and third stages was due to the fine Ni particles formed by the spontaneous activation.