Formic Acid Dehydrogenation on Au-Based Catalysts at Near-Ambient Temperatures

摘要

Formic acid (HCOOH) is a convenient hydrogen carrier in fuel cells designed for portable use.Recent studies show that Ru-based complexes decompose aqueous HCOOH solutions at near-ambient temperatures. Pt is the most active solid catalyst for HCOOH decomposition, at least as large crystallites and extended surfaces. The identity and oxidation state of surface atoms influence the selectivity to dehydrogenation (HCOOH->H2 + CO2) and dehydration (HCOOH->H2O + CO) routes and the ability to form CO-free H2 streams suitable for low-temperature fuel cells. Noble metals catalyze dehydrogenation selectively, while base metals and oxides catalyze both routes, either directly or via subsequent water-gas shift (WGS).