Syngas for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis by methane tri-reforming using nickel supported on MgAl2O4 promoted with Zr, Ce and Ce-Zr

• Published in: Applied surface science 2019-07, Vol.481, p.747-760
• Main Authors: Lino, Ananda Vallezi Paladino, Colmenares Calderon, Yormary Nathaly, Mastelaro, Valmor Roberto, Assaf, Elisabete Moreira, Assaf, José Mansur
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Ceria; Magnesium aluminate; Methane tri-reforming; Nickel catalyst; Zirconia
• ISSN: 0169-4332; 1873-5584
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2019.03.140

Nickel catalysts supported on magnesium aluminate promoted with ZrO2, CeZrO2 and CeO2 were evaluated under methane tri-reforming reaction. MgAl2O4 synthesis was assisted by P123® surfactant, assuring high porosity. The catalysts were tested at 650 °C and 750 °C. Zr and CeZr promoted catalysts showed less coke deposition and increased conversions, mainly at 750 °C, while the non-promoted catalyst featured lowest reactants conversion due to an unstable performance caused by filamentous coke deposition. The H2/CO ratio produced at 750 °C was at around 2, suitable to FT synthesis. In situ XPD analysis suggested nickel remained active as Ni0 throughout the reaction, even in the oxidant environment, containing water and oxygen, and high-temperature exposure. Considering that nickel oxidation during the process is one of the concerns related to the catalyst deactivation during tri-reforming of methane, along with carbon deposition, these catalysts are promising to active and stable syngas production. [Display omitted] •Zr and CeZr presence increased reactants conversions at 750 °C.•H2/CO ratio at 750 °C was near 2 and adequate to high chain hydrocarbons production.•Coke formation followed NMA > NCZMA > NZMA ~ NCMA trend, the same of concentration of strong base sites (%).•In situ studies showed Ni0 was not oxidized during tri-reforming process.