Enhancement of Ni-NiO-CeO2 Interaction on Ni–CeO2/Al2O3-MgO Catalyst by Ammonia Vapor Diffusion Impregnation for CO2 Reforming of CH4

Ni-based catalysts have been widely used for the CO2 reforming of methane (CRM) process, but deactivation is their main problem. This study created an alternative electronic Ni-NiO-CeO2 interaction on the surface of 5 wt% Ni-5 wt% CeO2/Al2O3-MgO (5Ni5Ce(xh)/MA) catalysts to enhance catalytic potential simultaneously with coke resistance for the CRM process. The Ni-NiO-CeO2 network was developed on Al2O3-MgO through layered double hydroxide synthesis via our ammonia vapor diffusion impregnation method. The physical properties of the fresh catalysts were analyzed employing FESEM, N2 physisorption, and XRD. The chemical properties on the catalyst surface were analyzed employing H2-TPR, XPS, H2-TPD, CO2-TPD, and O2-TPD. The CRM performances of reduced catalysts were evaluated at 600 °C under ambient pressure. Carbon deposits on spent catalysts were determined quantitatively and qualitatively by TPO, FESEM, and XRD. Compared to 5 wt% Ni-5 wt% CeO2/Al2O3-MgO prepared by the traditional impregnation method, the electronic interaction of the Ni-NiO-CeO2 network with the Al2O3-MgO support was constructed along the time of ammonia diffusion treatment. The electronic interaction in the Ni-NiO-CeO2 nanostructure of the treated catalyst develops surface hydroxyl sites with an efficient pathway of OH* and O* transfer that improves catalytic activities and coke oxidation.