Nano-Engineered Catalyst for the Utilization of CO2 in Dry Reforming to Produce Syngas | AIChE

Nano-Engineered Catalyst for the Utilization of CO2 in Dry Reforming to Produce Syngas

Authors 

Jin, B., Missouri University of Science and Technology
Shang, Z., Missouri University of Science and Technology
Liang, X., Missouri University of Science & Technology

The objective of this study was to develop a novel catalytic reactor containing nano-engineered catalyst for the utilization of CO2 (captured from coal-fired power plants) in dry reforming of methane (DRM) (CO2 + CH4 → 2 H2 + 2 CO) to produce synthesis gas (syngas). The technology aims to reduce CO2 emissions by developing beneficial uses for CO2 from coal-fired power plants. It also offers an alternative to mitigate CO2 emissions in areas where geologic storage may not be an optimal solution and/or utilization could significantly offset the costs of carbon capture and sequestration.

The nano-engineered Ni-based catalyst was prepared by atomic layer deposition (ALD). The Ni particles were as small as ~2-4 nm. The nano-engineered catalyst showed CH4 conversion >95%, H2/CO ratio in the range of 0.7-1.0, and CH4 reforming rate as high as 2,500 L/h/gNi at 850 ºC and pressure of 15-25 psia. The Ni-based ALD catalyst also showed good stability in DRM reaction during a 200-hour continuous operation at 850°C. This is due to a strong bonding between the nanoparticles and substrates since the Ni nanoparticles were chemically bonded to the substrate during the ALD process. The high thermal stability maintains high dispersion of Ni nanoparticles, which can inhibit coke formation, because their step edges are small enough to limit carbon nucleation and growth.