Research Information System
Chemical Engineering Communications, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
Methane, one of the main greenhouse gases, can be converted into synthesis gas through steam methane reformation (SMR), which uses catalysts to achieve high conversion efficiencies. Although significant advancements have been made in the design of steam reforming catalysts, challenges such as catalyst deactivation continue to drive the development of innovative solutions. This review highlights recent progress in SMR, focusing on key operational parameters, including catalyst composition, reaction temperature, coke deposition, conversion efficiency, and the steam-to-carbon (S/C) ratio. In particular, noble metal-based catalysts have attracted increasing attention due to their superior resistance to deactivation compared to conventional Ni-based catalysts. However, their high cost remains a critical limitation. The development of novel reducible supports for noble metals has gained increasing attention, as these materials can provide strong metal–support interactions that are less dependent on surface defects—unlike γ-Al2O3, which remains a notable exception. Emerging generations of catalysts are expected to demonstrate enhanced performance under optimized conditions, with improved tolerance to sulfur poisoning and efficient heat management, facilitating their transition from laboratory-scale studies to industrial-scale applications.