An active phase transformation on surface of Ni-Au/Al2O3 catalyst during partial oxidation of methane to synthesis gas

It was studied the influence of gold addition on physico-chemical properties and catalytic activity of bimetallic Ni-Au/Al2O3 catalyst in partial oxidation of methane (POM). The reduction behavior in hydrogen, XRD crystal structure, XPS spectra and POM catalytic activity were investigated. The reduction of Ni-Au catalyst is a prerequisite condition to catalyze POM reaction. The formation of Ni-Au alloy during high temperature reduction in hydrogen and also in the conditions of POM reaction was experimentally proved. The addition of gold to Ni/Al2O3 system improves catalyst stability and activity in POM reaction.