NiCo as catalyst for magnetically induced dry reforming of methane

In this paper we report the activation of the dry reforming reaction by induction heating of a NiCo alloy. The catalyst plays a double role, serving both as a promoter for the reforming reaction and producing the heat induced by dissipation of the electromagnetic energy. The elevated temperatures imposed by the reforming reaction suggest the choice of an alloy with a Curie temperature >800°C. In this respect Ni:Co ratio 60:40 was chosen. Alloy active sites for CH₄and CO₂activation are created by a mechanochemical treatment of the alloy that increases solid-state defects. The catalyst has been successfully tested in a continuous-flow reactor working under atmospheric pressure. Methane conversion and hydrogen production yields have been measured as a function of the applied magnetic field, reactant flow rate and time on stream. (paper)