Ni-loaded AFeO₃(Ca, Ce, and Sr) perovskite catalysts for efficient hydrogen-rich syngas production via steam gasification of wood–plastic composites

In this study, nickel (Ni)-loaded AFeO₃ perovskite catalysts were synthesized with various A-site species (Ca, Ce, and Sr) and utilized them for the hydrogen(H₂)-rich syngas production via steam gasification of wood-plastic composites (WPC). To investigate the effect of A-site species (Ca, Ce, and Sr) composition on catalytic properties, the catalysts were tested under reaction conditions of 800 °C and a catalyst-to-feedstock (C/F) ratio of 0.1. 10 wt% Ni/CeFeO₃ indicated the highest gas yield (68.32 wt%) and H₂ selectivity (53.91 vol%). These results are attributed to its excellent oxygen storage capacity (OSC) associated with the Ce^4 + /Ce³⁺redox pair, high lattice oxygen mobility, and strong metal–support interaction. These properties effectively promoted tar cracking and H₂ production through reforming and surface redox reactions. In addition, 10 wt% Ni/CeFeO₃ was tested at various temperatures (700, 750, and 800 °C), C/Fs (0.05, 0.1, and 0.2) and catalyst conditions (fresh and regenerated). An increase in the gasification temperature from 700 °C to 800 °C improved both gas yield and H₂ selectivity. Furthermore, at a C/F ratio of 0.2, the maximum gas yield (74.99 wt%) and H₂ selectivity (57.94 vol%) were achieved. The findings of this study demonstrate that 10 wt% Ni/AFeO₃ (A = Ca, Ce, and Sr) catalysts possess considerable potential for efficient H₂ production and stable performance in the steam gasification of WPC.