Advances in catalytic dry reforming of methane (DRM): Emerging trends, current challenges, and future perspectives

Abstract

The escalating levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane in recent decades have generated significant interest among researchers worldwide to identify expeditious solutions to this issue. A feasible alternative entails the utilization of CO2 in conjunction with methane to generate syngas by means of catalytic reforming. Extensive research has been conducted on the method, but there is a lack of literature on determining the reaction pathway network using an effective catalyst and optimizing the reactions. This article presents a current evaluation of advancements made in the reaction chemistry associated with the dry reforming of methane (DRM). Additionally, it summarizes recent breakthroughs achieved through the utilization of different catalysts in the DRM process, employing advanced experimental and theoretical methodologies. The efficacy of catalysts utilized in the process of DRM is heavily reliant on the choice of support materials, active phases, synthetic techniques, and reactor configurations. The present study investigates the impact of mentioned factors on the performance and stability of specific catalysts. The development of a cost-effective catalyst that exhibits both sustained catalytic activity and stability can be accomplished through the strategic utilization of synergistic interactions between noble and/or non-noble metals, resulting in the formation of bi- and tri-metallic catalysts that are both highly active and stable. The present investigation offers insights into the catalytic characteristics and their correlation with catalytic efficacy, which are essential for the systematic development of catalysts that are appropriate for DRM.