A stable and active nickel catalyst is used for the carbon dioxide reforming of methane to the synthesis gas

摘要

This invention refers to a novel nickel-based catalyst which exhibits excellent activity and stability for carbon dioxide reforming of natural gas (methane) to synthesis gas. The catalyst consists of nickel crystallites in contact with La₂O₃ carrier or in the form of nickel supported on La₂O₃ carrier or in the form of nickel on La₂O₃ particles dispersed on a conventional carrier such as γ-Al₂O₃. The stable and active surface of Ni/La₂O₃ is formed, following two hours of the reaction of carbon dioxide reforming of methane at temperatures higher than 600°C. In contrast to conventional nickel-based catalysts, e.g. Ni/γ-Al₂O₃, the new Ni/La₂O₃ catalysts (at the stable state) are not prone to coking in the temperature range of 550-850°C, exhibiting excellent stability. Near complete conversion of methane and carbon dioxide, and around 100% selectivity to carbon monoxide and hydrogen are achieved over the Ni/La₂O₃ catalysts under stoichiometric conditions at temperatures in the neighbourhood of 8oo°C and a superficial contact time of ca. 0.02 seconds.