Combined H2O and CO2 reforming of CH4 over Ce-promoted Ni/Al2O3 catalyst for gas to liquid (GTL) process: Enhancement of Ni–CeO2 interaction

The effect of Ni–Ce loading method on the catalytic activity and coke formation over Ce-promoted Ni/Al2O3 catalysts was investigated in combined steam and carbon dioxide reforming of methane (CSCRM) to produce synthesis gas with a H2/CO ratio of 2 for gas to liquid (GTL) process. 12 wt%Ni–6 wt%Ce/Al2O3 catalysts prepared by a co-impregnation method exhibited higher catalytic performance and less coke formation than 12 wt%Ni/6 wt%Ce/Al2O3 and 6 wt%Ce/12 wt%Ni/Al2O3 catalysts prepared by a sequential impregnation method due to the improvement of Ni dispersion and high oxygen storage capacity resulting from the intimate contact between Ni and CeO2 on the surface of the catalyst.

Graphical abstract12 wt%Ni–6 wt%Ce/Al2O3 catalysts prepared by a co-impregnation method exhibited higher catalytic performance and less coke formation than 12 wt%Ni/6 wt%Ce/Al2O3 and 6 wt%Ce/12 wt%Ni/Al2O3 catalysts prepared by a sequential impregnation method due to the improvement of Ni dispersion and high oxygen storage capacity resulting from the intimate contact between Ni and CeO2 on the surface of the catalyst.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (165 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► We investigate the effect of CeO2 loading method on the Ni dispersion of Ce-promoted Ni/Al2O3 catalysts. ► Ce-promoted catalysts are prepared by co-impregnation and consecutive-impregnation methods. ► Co-impregnated Ni–Ce/Al2O3 exhibits highly uniform dispersion of Ni crystallites in contrast with consecutive-impregnation. ► Co-impregnated Ni–Ce/Al2O3 shows high catalytic activity and high coke resistance in combined steam and carbon dioxide reforming. ► Co-impregnation method improves the Ni dispersion and the reducibility and strengthens the interaction between Ni and CeO2.