A Plasma-Activated Ni/α-Al2O3 Catalyst for the Conversion of CH4 to Syngas

Abstract

Nickel-based catalysts supported on α-Al2O3 for the partial oxidationof methane were activated by a glow discharge plasma technique. Theactivating process was simple, quick, audio-visual, and easy to control. Theactivity and stability of the activated catalyst were higher than those ofconventional catalysts. The methane conversion of 98.2% and selectivity of97.3% to hydrogen and 96.5% to carbon monoxide were obtained at850°C. The catalyst could maintain its activity over 15 hr. According tothe results of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and temperature-programmed reduction(TPR), the component of crystal phase and the reducibility of the activatedcatalyst were significantly different from those of conventionalcatalysts.