Abstract: Cu-Zn-based catalysts were prepared by a novel co- precipitation procedure. Physical mixtures containing a Cu-Zn-based catalyst and ZSM-5 catalyst to couple DME hydrolysis and methanol steam reforming were used to examine the synergistic effects on DME steam reforming. The activity and selectivity were influenced by the catalyst composition and copper content, and also the content of Al and Zr.

Key words: dimethyl ether, steam reforming, hydrogen production, acid catalyst, copper catalyst