Bibliometric analysis of ethanol reforming using hydrotalcite-type catalysts

Abstract

The search for alternative energy routes, driven by economic and environmental concerns, has stimulated the development of new approaches. Among the options, the production of hydrogen through reforming reactions using renewable sources such as ethanol stands out. The economic viability of this production is linked to the advancement of efficient and stable catalysts. In this context, catalysts derived from hydrotalcite, or layered double hydroxides (LDHs), emerge as promising candidates, demonstrating resistance to coke formation. Despite the large amount of research and reviews on ethanol reform, no bibliometric studies have been carried out in this area to date. Such studies constitute a valuable tool for monitoring scientific production and identifying academic trends. Therefore, the objective of this research was to fill this gap by carrying out a bibliometric analysis to elucidate the importance of ethanol reforming with hydrotalcite catalysts. Using the Web of Science Core Collection database, a bibliometric study was carried out covering publications from the last two decades. The analysis covered 20 relevant documents in the area, exploring key research indicators. This approach allowed for an in-depth understanding of the current panorama and emerging trends, helping to facilitate collaboration and dissemination of knowledge among researchers. Through this study, it was observed that the integration of different fields, from chemistry to engineering, is essential to promote significant advances in the development of more efficient catalytic processes. The identification of central themes, such as "nickel hydrogen-production bio-ethanol" and "ni fuel-cells double hydroxides", highlights the areas of greatest concentration of knowledge and highlights opportunities for future research. In summary, this study highlights the critical role of efficient catalysts, particularly those derived from hydrotalcite, in advancing hydrogen production from ethanol reforming, thus paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.