The Need

Stable and reusable catalysts improve the efficiency of industrial scale material production. However, hexavalent Chromium (VI) and other common catalysts are known to cause various health effects. Furthermore, there are substantial risks associated with greater concentrations of chromium in the water supply. A novel catalyst that reduces the health risks and increases the efficiency of the hydrogen gas production process would greatly benefit industry.

The Technology

Researchers at The Ohio State University, led by Dr. Umit Ozkan, have developed a novel catalyst, consisting of primarily Fe-Al promoted with transition and rare-earth metals, for production of hydrogen in a water gas shift reaction. The invention employs a modified sol-gel technique to prepare the catalysts and disperses the promoters in the iron oxide matrix.

Commercial Applications

• Catalyst for a water gas shift reaction
• Improved Efficiency
• Removal of hazardous compounds from the process

Benefits/Advantages

• Removes dangerous hexavalent chromate from a water gas shift reaction, using iron and aluminum instead.
• The iron aluminum catalyst yields a higher amount of hydrogen, compared to hexavalent chromate
• Water Gas Shift reactor volume can be significantly reduced and can operate at lower temperature
• More environmentally and economically friendly applications.
• Increased lifetime due to high stability and resistance to sulfur poisoning
• Saves an estimated 50% on processing costs