PNNL researchers use iridium catalysts to drive reactions in biofuel production

In Washington state, steam reforming turns methane from biomass into a mixture that can be further converted into transportation fuels. By combining experimental and theoretical approaches, researchers at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) Institute for Integrated Catalysis determined key properties of potentially more durable rhodium and iridium catalysts, which drive the reactions. Catalysts that quickly fail because of high temperatures and tar buildup are not practical for large-scale steam reforming production. Small iridium particles proved fast and stable.