Characterization of CeO2 Promoter of a Nanocrystalline Ni/MgO Catalyst in Dry Reforming of Methane

Ceria‐promoted nickel catalysts supported on nanocrystalline MgO were prepared and employed in methane reforming with CO₂. Their characterization was accomplished by X‐ray diffraction, BET, temperature‐programmed oxidation, and temperature‐programmed reduction (TPR) techniques. Cerium oxide (CeO₂) proved to have a positive effect on catalytic activity, stability, and carbon suppression in methane reforming with CO₂. A higher CeO₂ content increased the catalyst activity and decreased the amount of deposited carbon over the spent catalysts. The suppression of carbon was related to the high oxygen storage capacity of CeO₂. In addition, TPR analysis revealed that the CeO₂ promoter reduced the chemical interaction between nickel and support, resulting in an increase in reducibility and higher dispersion of nickel.