Catalytic Upgrading of a Biogas Model Mixture via Low Temperature DRM Using Multicomponent Catalysts

The catalytic performance of a series of bimetallic Ni-Co/CeO2-Al2O3 catalysts were evaluated within the dry reforming of methane (DRM) reaction, commonly used for upgrading biogas. The study focused on the variation of CeO2 weight loadings between 0, 10, 20 and 30%. It was found that the addition of CeO2 promoted CH4 and CO2 conversion across the temperature range and increased H-2/CO ratio for the low temperature DRM. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), H-2-Temperature Programmed Reduction (H-2-TPR) and X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) analysis revealed the formation of Ce4+ during activation of the 30% sample, resulted in excessive carbon deposition during reaction. The lowest CeO2 weight loadings exhibited softer carbon formation and limited increased chemical stability during reaction at the expense of activity. Of the tested weight loadings, 20 wt% CeO2 exhibited the best balance of catalytic activity, chemical stability and deactivation resistance in the DRM reaction. Hence this catalyst can be considered a promising system for syngas production from biogas at relatively low temperatures evidencing the pivotal role of catalysts design to develop economically viable processes for bioresources valorisation.