Co-Based Catalysts for Carbon Dioxide Reforming of Methane to Synthesis Gas

Greenhouse effect has been a pressing challenge for the mankind The conversion and utilization of greenhouse gases become a difficult research topic with general interest all over the world. In this context, carbon dioxide (CO2) reforming of methane, namely dry reforming has been recognized as an advanced technology with great prospect because it can convert two potent greenhouse gases (CH4/CO2) into valuable synthesis gas (syngas, H-2/CO). Commercialization of this technology remains unrealized mainly due to the lack of feasible catalysts. Considering the excellent activity and relatively low cost, transition metal based catalysts are regarded as the most promising candidates. The previous research mainly focuses on Ni-based catalysts. But the Ni-based catalysts are vulnerable to rapid deactivation due to carbon deposition and metal sintering. Recently, Co-based catalysts have been reported to possess excellent catalytic performance. Herein, the progress of Co-based catalysts for CO2 reforming of methane is reviewed. The first section addresses the role of active phases, supports, promoters and synthesis methodologies on catalytic performance. The second section discusses the catalytic mechanism and the formation of coke. The last section proposes the strategies for rational design of improving Co-based reforming catalysts and the research directions of Co-based reforming catalysts in the near future.