Catalyst development for indirect internal reforming (IIR) of methane by partial oxidation

Abstract The development of a Ni@SiO2 partial oxidation (POx) catalyst with the potential to support indirect internal reforming (IIR) is reported. The paper explores how the silica shell proves vital in resisting the deactivation of the catalyst by re-oxidation. The results show that the silica shell maintained the nickel in its reduced state by limiting the rate of oxygen diffusion to the nickel surface. Retaining the Ni0 state allows for partial oxidation to proceed. The investigated catalysts were characterised by TGA, XRD, BET and TEM and the performance of the catalysts was assessed by gas chromatography. The tested catalysts showed greater than 95% methane conversion at 750 °C with a high selectivity towards syngas production. The stability of the catalyst was monitored over a time frame of 100 h, with minor degradation occurring due to nickel particle agglomeration.