Catalytic CO2 reforming of methane over Ir/Ce0.9Gd0.1O2−x

CO2 reforming of methane over Ir loaded Ce0.9Gd0.1O2−x (Ir/CGO) has been studied between 600 and 800 °C and for CH4/CO2 ratios between 2 and 0.66 in order to evaluate its potential use as an anode material for direct conversion of biogas at moderate temperatures in solid oxide fuel cells. The catalyst exhibited a superior catalytic activity compared to the support alone and other Ir based catalysts. High CH4/CO2 ratios and temperatures were required to obtain the maximum H2/CO ratio, which could never exceed unity. Long-term experiments were carried out, showing the excellent stability of the catalyst with time on stream. Carbon formation was totally inhibited (in most experimental conditions) or very limited in the most severe conditions of the study (800 °C, CH4/CO2 = 2). This carbon was found to be highly reactive towards O2 upon TPO experiments.