The catalytic effect of iron oxides on the formation of nano-carbon by the Boudouard reaction in refractories

The catalytic decomposition of carbon monoxide via the Boudouard reaction in the presence of iron has been a subject of numerous studies. This reaction produces a solid carbon deposit in which CO is a reactant and results in deleterious effects on refractory materials. Only a few studies have used a gas mixture primarily composed of CO + H2, which is generated in new energy applications. We investigated the effect of the degree of oxidation and the grain size of the FexOy catalyst particles on the amount of carbon, in CO + H2, using thermogravimetric analysis and Raman-spectroscopy as well as scanning and transmission electron microscopy. All of the FexOy resulted in similar carbon formation. The effect of the grain size and specific surface particles was demonstrated, in particular due to the large decrease in the catalyst particle size. This study could be helpful for the future development of new refractories materials in reducing conditions.