Lanthanum-Modified MCF-Derived Nickel Phyllosilicate Catalyst for Enhanced CO₂ Methanation: A Comprehensive Study

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Catalysis
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Traditional methods struggle to create supported nickel catalysts with fine particle sizes at high loadings.
• Developing advanced catalysts is crucial for efficient chemical processes.
• Mesoporous materials offer unique properties for catalyst support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize La-modified mesostructured cellular foam (MCF)-derived nickel phyllosilicate catalysts.
• To investigate the effect of La modification on nickel dispersion, particle size, and catalytic performance.
• To evaluate the stability and activity of the novel catalyst under harsh conditions.

Main Methods:

• Hydrothermal synthesis of nickel phyllosilicates followed by La2O3 impregnation.
• Characterization of catalysts using techniques like in situ DRIFTS.
• Evaluation of catalytic activity, H2 and CO2 chemisorption, and stability through lifetime tests.

Main Results:

• Nickel phyllosilicate catalysts achieved high Ni dispersion and small Ni nanoparticles (<5 nm), unlike impregnated catalysts (13.0 nm).
• La modification further reduced Ni particle size and improved catalytic activity, especially at low temperatures (<400 °C).
• The best catalyst (N/M-P-32-5L) showed high activity, low activation energy (69.83 kJ mol-1), and excellent sintering and thermal stability over 100 hours.

Conclusions:

• La-modified MCF-derived nickel phyllosilicates are superior to traditional supported nickel catalysts.
• The unique properties of phyllosilicate and La2O3 promotion contribute to enhanced catalytic performance and stability.
• This novel catalyst demonstrates significant potential for industrial applications requiring high-temperature catalysis.