Methane decomposition over ceria modified iron catalysts

• Published in: Catalysis communications 2010-09, Vol.11 (15), p.1215-1219
• Main Authors: Tang, Liangguang, Yamaguchi, Doki, Burke, Nick, Trimm, David, Chiang, Ken
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Ceria; Methane decomposition; Supported iron catalysts
• ISSN: 1566-7367; 1873-3905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.catcom.2010.07.004

The catalytic behaviour of ceria supported iron catalysts (Fe–CeO 2) was investigated for methane decomposition. The Fe–CeO 2 catalysts were found to be more active than catalysts based on iron alone. A catalyst composed of 60 wt.% Fe 2O 3 and 40 wt.% CeO 2 gave optimal catalytic activity, and the highest iron metal surface area. The well-dispersed Fe state helped to maintain the active surface area for the reaction. Methane conversion increased when the reaction temperature was increased from 600 to 650 °C. Continuous formation of trace amounts of carbon monoxide was observed during the reaction due to the oxidation of carbonaceous species by high mobility lattice oxygen in the solid solution formed within the catalyst. This could minimise catalyst deactivation caused by carbon deposits and maintain catalyst activity over a longer period of time. The catalyst also produced filamentous carbon that helped to extend the catalyst life. The catalytic behaviour of ceria supported iron catalysts (Fe–CeO 2) was investigated for methane decomposition. The Fe–CeO 2 catalysts were found to be more active than catalysts based on iron alone. A catalyst composed of 60 wt.% Fe 2O 3 and 40 wt.% CeO 2 gave optimal catalytic activity, and the highest iron metal surface area. [Display omitted] ►Ceria supported iron particles (Fe–CeO 2) were active catalysts for methane decomposition. The Fe–CeO 2 catalysts were found to be more active than catalysts based on iron alone. ►At a composition of 60 wt.% Fe 2O 3 and 40 wt.% CeO 2, the active iron phase displayed the highest iron metal surface area. The well-dispersed iron state helped to maintain the active surface area for the reaction. ►The continuous formation of trace amounts of carbon monoxide was observed during the reaction due to the oxidation of carbonaceous species by high mobility lattice oxygen in the solid solution formed within the catalyst. This could minimise catalyst deactivation caused by carbon deposits and maintain catalyst activity over a longer period of time. ►The catalyst also produced filamentous carbon that helped to extend the catalyst life.