Improvement of Catalytic Activity of Atomized Ni3Al Powder for Methanol Decomposition by Surface Chemical Treatments

Abstract

The effect of acid and alkali leaching on catalytic activity of an atomized Ni3Al powder for methanol decomposition was investigated. It was found that a two-step process, an acid leaching followed by an alkali leaching, was most effective for improving the activity. The optimal conditions of acid and alkali leaching were examined. The effect of the acid and alkali leaching was attributed to the formation of fine Ni species and a porous surface structure.