Cobalt-modified mesoporous MgO, ZrO2, and CeO2 oxides as catalysts for methanol decomposition

Cobalt oxide-modified mesoporous CeO2, ZrO2, and MgO oxides and their SBA-15 silica analogues were prepared and characterized by XRD, TEM, N-2 physisorption, FTIR, and TPR-TG analysis. Their catalytic activity in methanol decomposition to CO and hydrogen was tested. The support effect on the state and catalytic behavior of the loaded cobalt oxide nanoparticles is discussed. The best catalytic activity and selectivity of methanol decomposition to CO and hydrogen are registered for Co/CeO2. (c) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.