A catalyst that can be used for the production of hydrogen from
hydrocarbon fuels in steam reforming processes contains an active metal
of, e.g., at least one of Ir, Pt and Pd, on a catalyst support of, e.g.,
at least one of monoclinic zirconia and an alkaline-earth metal
hexaaluminate. The catalyst exhibits improved activity, stability in both
air and reducing atmospheres, and sulfur tolerance.