Modulating morphology and textural properties of Al2O3 for supported Ni catalysts toward plasma-assisted dry reforming of methane.

The synergy between plasma and catalysis has been long noticed, but how to further improve the synergy remains challenging. Herein, a series of Ni/Al 2 O 3 catalysts with different Al 2 O 3 morphologies (nanorod-NR, nanosheet-NS and spherical flower-SF) were investigated for plasma-assisted dry reforming of methane (DRM). Surface properties, metal dispersion, and discharge properties were modulated, and thereby affected catalytic performance and plasma-catalysis synergistic efficiency. Sufficient surface hydroxyls on NS-Al 2 O 3 dispersed and anchored Ni centers via forming Ni-O-Al linkages, and the specific two–dimensional structure facilitated charge deposition and generated a stronger local electric field. Accordingly, the Ni/NS-Al 2 O 3 catalyst showed the best catalytic activity & stability and energy efficiency in the reaction. The present study provides a promising strategy to enhance the synergy and energy efficiency of plasma-catalysis by coupling highly dispersed Ni active centers and specific structures of Al 2 O 3 substrate to obtain an efficient catalyst motivating the DRM reaction under mild conditions. [Display omitted] • Ni/Al 2 O 3 catalysts with different Al 2 O 3 morphologies were investigated for plasma-assisted DRM. • The dispersion mechanism of Ni species on different Al 2 O 3 nanostructures were revealed. • Sufficient surface hydroxyls on NS-Al 2 O 3 facilitated Ni dispersion via forming Ni-O-Al linkages. • Coupling highly dispersed Ni and nanosheet structure boosted charge deposition and higher energy efficiency was obtained. • Superior stability performance was exhibited over the Ni/NS-Al 2 O 3 catalyst in plasma-catalytic DRM reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]