Partial Oxidation of Methane over Modified Ni/α-Al₂O₃ Catalyst at Low Temperature

Abstract

Modified Ni/α-Al₂O₃ was investigated as a catalyst for partial oxidation of methane for syngas production at low temperature. Only Co-modified Ni/α-Al₂O₃ catalyst (Ni/Co/α-Al₂O₃) catalyzed the reaction below 673 K. 6.6 wt% Ni/3.6 wt% Co/α-Al₂O₃ catalyst showed the optimum balance of low reaction temperature and less carbon deposition. Structural analysis revealed close-contact or alloy structures between Ni and Co on Ni/Co/α-Al₂O₃ catalyst, which were crucial for low-temperature reaction. CH₄/O₂ pulse dosing test revealed that Co addition to Ni/α-Al₂O₃ catalyst improved CH₄ combustion activity due to tolerance of oxidation.