Preparation of structured catalysts with Ni and Ni Rh/CeO2 catalytic layers for syngas production by biogas reforming processes

Ni(7.5 wt.%)/CeO2 and Ni(7.5 wt.%)-Rh(0.5 wt.%)/CeO2 powders (previously prepared by solution combustion synthesis) were washcoated on cordierite monolith and alumina open-cell foam by means of support dip-coating into acid-free catalyst dispersion. Catalytic performances toward the steam reforming (SR) and the oxy-steam reforming (OSR) of biogas were investigated and compared at different temperatures (700-800 degrees C) and weight space velocities (WSV = 70,000-350,000 Nml g(cat)(-1) h(-1)). Coating load was controlled by multiple depositions; homogeneous and well adherent layers were found. Catalytic tests demonstrated superior performances of the bimetallic samples (Ni-Rh/CeO2) compared to the monometallic one (Ni/CeO2), especially at high space velocity. At the same time, foam showed better performances with respect to the monolithic support toward the SR and OSR processes. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.