Mesoporous nanocrystalline zirconia powders: A promising support for nickel catalyst in CH4 reforming with CO2

Mesoporous nanocrystalline zirconia powders (ZrO2–3%M2Ox; M: Ce, La and K) with high surface area and pure tetragonal crystallite phase were prepared by the surfactant-assisted route, using Pluronic P123 block copolymer surfactant. The synthesized powders were employed as support for nickel catalysts in methane reforming with carbon dioxide for the production of synthesis gas. The obtained results showed that the synthesized powders had a good potential as support for nickel catalysts.