Steering catalytic property and reactivity of Ni/SiO2 by functionalized silica for dry reforming of methane
Haehyun Min, Ye Jin Ji, Do Yeong Kim, Do Yeong Kim, Yangguen Ju, Chang Geun Yoo, Young Jin Kim, Young Jin Kim, Sung Bong Kang
Abstract
The dry reforming of methane (DRM) is a promising catalytic reaction for converting greenhouse gases (CH 4 and CO 2 ) into valuable syngas. Despite the advantages of silica as a catalyst support, its inert nature limits its application in DRM due to reduced binding affinity with nickel. Here, we developed Ni-impregnated silica catalysts exhibiting a bimodal pore system in which silica supports were synthesized by tuning the ratio of aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES) and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS). The Ni/silica catalyst prepared by the intermediate concentration of APTES exhibited a unique combination of acidic and basic properties, enhancing DRM activity and catalytic durability. The catalysts displayed a favorable nickel size distribution, with smaller Ni particles in intermediate ratio silica, overcoming the limitations of conventional silica-based catalysts. Our findings demonstrate the suitable catalytic characteristics of Ni/synthesized-SiO 2 for the dry reforming of methane.