Interaction of iron-copper mixed metal oxide oxygen carriers with simulated synthesis gas derived from steam gasification of coal

► Novel bimetallic Fe-Cu oxygen carriers have been obtained. Five different supports were examined. ► TiO2 showed the best stability during cyclic tests, the best reduction and oxidation rates. ► Ten-cycle TGA tests conducted with these oxygen carriers and simulated synthesis gas showed promising results. ► Synthesis gas derived from steam gasification of Janina coal had a better reducing ability than Illinois #6 coal. ► Bimetallic oxygen carriers containing more Cu than Fe showed better reduction rates and stability.