Chapter 7 - Catalysts for syngas production by dry reforming of methane

Abstract

This chapter aims to clarify the main aspects of the dry reforming of methane (DRM), and how an efficient catalyst design can be the best way of minimizing constant concerns about the DRM process. Important aspects related to the coke deposition and active site sintering will be discussed in detail, once they are the main catalyst deactivation mechanisms. Indeed, the environmental and economic advantages of using biomass as raw material for high-cost products obtaining, such as syngas, will be discussed. Further, it is worth mentioning that the DRM process is frequently carried out at high temperatures, once the kinetics and thermodynamics are notably favored in this environment. However, undesired reactions, such as reverse water-gas shift reaction and Boudouard reaction, can occur. Therefore, an overview focusing on explaining how those side reactions can affect the conversion and the selectivity will be carried out.