A Review on the Design Strategies of Copper-Based Catalysts for Enhanced Activity and Stability in Methanol Reforming to Hydrogen

Methanol Steam Reforming (MSR) is one of the most promising technologies in the hydrogen economy, and copper-based catalysts have become the core materials in this field due to their high activity and low cost. In this paper, we systematically review the design strategies of copper-based catalysts in MSR reactions in recent years, including structure control, component optimization, support effect, and surface modification. We focus on the mechanisms of active site exposure, improvement of anti-sintering ability, and the enhancement of anti-carbon deposition performance. Finally, we summarize the challenges of current research and propose the future development direction. This review aims to provide a reference for subsequent related research through the experience of this paper.