Study on the mechanism of partial oxidation of methane to synthesis gas over molybdenum carbide catalyst

The performance of molybdenum carbide catalyst for partial oxidation of methane to syngas has been evaluated in a micro-reactor under various conditions. The molybdenum carbide catalyst is stable in methane partial oxidation to syngas at high reaction temperatures, high pressures and with a low space velocity of reactants. Pre-treatment has a significant effect on the catalyst activity and selectivity. The reaction mechanism over molybdenum carbide has been studied using 13C isotope exchange and in situ laser Raman. It is seen that the carbon in the lattice of the molybdenum carbide takes an active part in the reaction. The deactivation of molybdenum carbide catalyst results from the oxidation of the catalyst surface.