We have studied Co-Ceria and Ni-Ceria catalysts for CH4 activation, and CO2 assisted converion (dry reforming) over both powder and well defined model systems to elucidate the active surface chemistry. In particular ambient pressure XPS (AP-XPS), a powerful tool for performing in situ characterization was conducted both in house (Al/Mg K alpha) and at several synchrotrons for enhaned X-ray spectrsocopy under reaction conditions. AP-XPS was able to unravel the active surface states (M0 and Ce3+/Ce4+), and identify that the M-Ce interface likely plays an essential role in the production of CO + H2. We have also been able to observe important intermediates that previal including -CH3 upon initial activation, followed by -COx from selective surface oxidation. Several other in situ X-ray methods (XRD and XANES) was also used to elucidate the structural and chemical transformations that occurs in the Co-Ceria powder catalyts under reaction conditions.<br/><br/>

In situ XPS as a surface probe for C-H reforming reactions over M-Ceria (M=Co, Ni) catalysts

256th National Meeting (2018)

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