Aqueous Phase Reforming of Sorbitol Over Platinum-Alumina Catalyst for Hydrogen and Chemical Production

Abstract

Aqueous phase reforming of biomass-derived oxygenated compounds has emerged as a promising approach for sustainable hydrogen and value-added chemical production under mild operating conditions. The present study investigates the aqueous phase reforming of sorbitol over platinum–alumina catalyst systems with emphasis on hydrogen generation, catalytic performance, and product selectivity under controlled reaction conditions. Experimental analysis was conducted to evaluate the influence of reaction temperature, pressure, catalyst loading, sorbitol concentration, and residence time on reforming efficiency, gas composition, and liquid-phase product distribution. Results demonstrate that platinum-supported alumina catalysts effectively promote sorbitol conversion through dehydrogenation, reforming, and carbon–carbon bond cleavage reactions, resulting in enhanced hydrogen production and formation of useful chemical intermediates. The study further reveals that optimized reaction conditions significantly improve hydrogen yield while minimizing methane formation and catalyst deactivation caused by coke deposition. Elevated temperatures enhanced reforming kinetics and gas production efficiency, whereas controlled pressure conditions contributed to stable catalytic activity and improved selectivity toward hydrogen-rich gas streams. Catalyst characterization indicated that alumina support materials provided favorable surface area and thermal stability for efficient dispersion of platinum active sites. Comparative assessment with conventional steam reforming processes confirms the advantages of aqueous phase reforming, including lower operating temperatures, reduced energy demand, and compatibility with renewable biomass-derived feedstocks.