Design of active and stable NiCeO2ZrO2MgAl2O4 dry reforming catalysts

An active and stable NiCeO2ZrO2MgAl2O4 catalyst for dry reforming in severe coking conditions (CO2/CH4 = 1.1, GHSV = 32,000 h(-1), 670 degrees C and 1.5 bar) was developed by combining conventional and combinatorial research strategies using high-throughput experimentation. A D-optimal design was applied to setup statistically verified models for catalytic activity (X-CH4, X-CO2). selectivity (H-2/CO molar ratio) and stability (coke resistance) as function of the selected input factors, viz, the amount of active element and amount of promoters. The importance of selecting the proper objective function Rand appropriate unit to express the amount of coke deposited are discussed in detail. Via the most reliable objective function Ran optimal catalyst composition area is obtained, where catalysts combine high activity with a long service lifetime. It was recognized that stable dry reforming occurs only with a subtle balance of the catalyst composition. Best dry reforming performances are achieved with catalyst compositions having low Ni (2 wt%), ZrO2 (<1 wt%) and high CeO2 (>3 wt%) content. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.