Dry reforming of methane over silica zeolite-encapsulated Ni-based catalysts: Effect of preparation method, support structure and Ni content on catalytic performance.

Dry reforming of methane (DRM) is a prospective technology for efficient utilization of CH 4 and CO 2 , with the essential challenge being the design and synthesis of efficient catalysts. In this research, serial encapsulated Ni-based catalysts (xNi@S-1, x = 5, 7, 10) by silica zeolite (S-1) were prepared successfully. The effects of support structure, preparation method and Ni content upon the catalytic performance for DRM were investigated and diverse characterizations were utilized for revealing structural features of as-prepared catalysts. Encapsulated 7Ni@S-1 catalyst prepared using the one-pot hydrothermal method could acquire more homogeneously dispersed metallic Ni particles and more Ni species including Ni0, NiO, 1:1/2:1 Ni phyllosilicates that could facilitate forming stable Ni0 sites and Ni2+-O2- ion pairs for adsorption and activation of CH 4 and CO 2 , respectively. Hence, 7Ni@S-1 still maintained the highest CH 4 and CO 2 conversions of 57.9% and 88.6% and H 2 /CO molar ratio of 0.90 after 52 h stability tests. [Display omitted] • Silica zeolite (S-1) encapsulated Ni-based catalysts were successfully prepared. • Highly dispersed Ni0 particles were obtained using the one-pot hydrothermal method. • Ni phyllosilicates and S-1 pores enhanced the anchoring of metal Ni sites. • Encapsulated 7Ni@S-1 catalyst exhibited the optimal catalytic DRM performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]