Partial oxidation of methane over Ni–Co perovskite catalysts

A series of LaNi1 − xCoxO3 compounds (x = 0, 0.2 and 0.4) was synthesized by the combustion method with urea and used as catalyst precursors in the partial oxidation of methane (POM). Only LaNiO3 was obtained as a single phase. The substitution of Ni by Co in LaNiO3 perovskite caused formation of secondary phases and resulted in a decrease in the specific surface area and an increase in the reduction temperature. After the reduction treatment, the perovskite structure was completely decomposed and the only phases detected were Ni0, Co0 and La2O3. Activity cycles between 400 and 800 °C revealed that the introduction of Co decreased the catalytic activity for POM reaction at high temperature. No apparent deactivation was observed during 24 h on stream at 750 °C for all catalysts.

Graphical AbstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch Highlights► LaNi1 −xCoxO3 perovskites synthesized by the combustion method with urea. ► Substitution of Ni by Co influences the textural, structural and reducing properties. ► Good activity and stability for the POM reaction.