Hydrogen Production by Steam Reforming of Acetone–Butanol–Ethanol over Supported Nickel Catalysts: Effect of MgO Promoter

Hydrogen is rapidly emerging as a cornerstone of sustainable energy strategies, and unlocking its full potential depends on innovative technologies that harness renewable raw materials. In this context, this study explores a promising route: hydrogen production using an ABE (acetone–butanol–ethanol) mixture derived from the fermentation of various biomass substrates. A Ni/MgO-Al2O3 catalyst (20 wt % of NiO and 10 wt % of MgO) was prepared and compared with Ni/Al2O3 in ABE (3:6:1 mass ratio, 10% v/v) steam reforming at 400–600 °C. The MgO-promoted catalyst demonstrated significantly enhanced activity due to its superior Ni dispersion and increased basicity. At 500 °C, the Ni/MgO-Al2O3 catalyst achieved 92% global ABE conversion and a hydrogen yield of 55% while maintaining stable performance over 30 h on stream. Moreover, the coking rate was substantially reduced compared with that of Ni/Al2O3, and the deposited carbon was less amorphous, indicating an improved resistance to deactivation. These findings highlight Ni/MgO-Al2O3 as a promising catalyst for sustainable hydrogen production from biomass-derived ABE mixtures.