Structure, reactivity and catalytic properties of nanoparticles of nickel ferrite in the dry reforming of methane

► Nanosized particles of nickel ferrite were used as precursors of catalyst in the dry reforming of methane to syngas. ► The fresh catalysts were poorly active and a low H2/CO ratio was obtained. ► Using H2-TPR and H2-HTXRD showed that probably a NiFe alloy was formed in the catalytic operating conditions. ► Pre-reduction in the reactor brought about outstanding performance of nickel ferrite prepared by sol-gel process.