Effect of La2O3 modification on the catalytic performance of Ni/SiC for methanation of carbon dioxide

Ni/SiC and La2O3 modified Ni/SiC were prepared by impregnation method and used as the catalysts for methanation of CO2. The modified Ni/SiC shows better catalytic activity and stability than pure Ni/SiC. XRD and TPR results indicate that La2O3 can effectively restrain the growth of NiO nanoparticles, improve the dispersion of NiO and strengthen the interaction between NiO and SiC. XPS result suggests that La2O3 can change the electron environment surrounding Ni atoms and thus reactant CO2 on the Ni atoms can be activated more easily.

Graphical abstractLa2O3 modification can enhance the metal–support interaction and thus stabilize nickel nanoparticles on the support. Therefore Ni–La/SiC catalyst exhibits high activity and excellent durability for CO2 methanation.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Ni/SiC and La2O3 modified Ni/SiC catalysts were prepared by impregnation method. ► La2O3 modified Ni/SiC exhibits higher activity and durability in CO2 methanation. ► The improved catalytic behavior results from the high dispersion of nickel species.