Modification effect of natural mixed rare earths on Co/γ-Al2O3 catalysts for CH4/CO2 reforming to synthesis gas

The study first investigated the modification effect of natural mixed rare earths (MRE) on cobalt catalysts for CH4/CO2 reforming to synthesis gas. The Co/γ-Al2O3 catalysts modified with the natural mixed rare earths were synthesized by the impregnation method, and characterized via ICP, BET, XRD, H2-TPR, TEM and TG–DSC techniques. The result showed that the addition of mixed rare earths enhanced the anti-sintering ability of metallic cobalt after reduction and improved anti-coke performance of the catalysts via the synergic effect of mixed rare earths. The 20% Co/γ-Al2O3 catalyst promoted by the appropriate natural mixed rare earths exhibited good activity and stability with low carbon formation at 800 °C for 320 h reaction.

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► Modification effect of natural mixed rare earths on Co/γ-Al2O3 for CH4/CO2 reforming.
► Addition of MRE decreased particle size of Co3O4 and enhanced dispersion of cobalt.
► Modification of MRE increased interaction between cobalt and supports.
► Addition of MRE increased ratio of active carbon and improved anti-coking behavior.
► 0.05MRECo exhibited good activity and stability with low carbon deposition for 320 h.