Production of Synthesis Gas via Dry Reforming of Methane over Co-Based Catalysts: Effect on H2/CO Ratio and Carbon Deposition

Abstract

The effect of support type on synthesis gas production using Co-based catalysts supported over TiO2-P25, Al2O3, SiO2, and CeO2 was investigated. The catalysts were prepared by the incipient wet impregnation method and characterized by various techniques for comparison. Experiments were performed in a micro tubular reactor. The results revealed that all Co-supported catalysts produced synthesis gas ratios of 1 and below and, thus, proved to be well-suited for methanol and Fischer-Tropsch syntheses. Co catalysts supported over TiO2-P25 and Al2O3 provided better synthesis gas ratios and stability performances. The promotion of a Co/TiO2-P25 catalyst with Ce had a substantial influence on its catalytic activity and the amount of carbon deposit. A Ce-promoted catalyst diminished markedly the extent of carbon deposition and thus boosted the performance towards better activity and stability.