Catalyst Development for the Power Generation by Biomass Gasification: Efficiency in Catalytic Gasification of Cellulose at Low Temperature

Unlike the conventional methods of biomass gasification to hydrogen and synthesis gas which are conducted at high temperature, this study is concerned with developing a catalyst for energy efficient power generation by catalytic gasification of biomass at lower reaction temperature. Rh/CeO ₂/SiO₂ catalysts with various CeO₂ content were used in cellulose gasification. The optimum content was found to be 35 wt % CeO₂. The catalytic reaction of this Rh/CeO₂/SiO ₂(35) catalyst was compared with conventional methods (steam reforming Ni catalyst, dolomite, non-catalyst) in terms of C-conversion to gas and cold gas efficiency. The Rh/CeO₂/SiO₂(35) catalyst exhibited much higher performance than other methods and can enhance the energy efficiency of power generation using biomass gasification.