Nickel catalyst supported on magnesium and zinc aluminates (MgAl₂O₄ and ZnAl₂O₄) spinels for dry reforming of methane

Materials such as MgAl₂O₄ and ZnAl₂O₄ assessed in the reaction of dry reforming of methane to produce syngas were synthesized by microwave-assisted combustion method using urea as fuel. Samples of synthesized oxides were calcined at 800 °C for 2 h and impregnated with 5% nickel. The impregnated samples were calcined at 850 °C for 4 h to obtain the desired phases. The results of the catalytic tests showed that the catalysts are active for the reaction of dry reforming of methane, and the catalyst that showed the best performance for methane conversion was 5% Ni/MgAl₂O₄ calcined at 850 °C/4 h. (author)