Enhanced methane reforming activity of a hydrothermally synthesised co-doped perovskite catalyst

A catalyst for the direct reforming of methane and simulated biogas has been prepared using a green and low temperature hydrothermal method. The nickel and iron co-doped SrZrO3 perovskite shows catalytic activity comparable to 10% Ni/Al2O3, but with an almost 50% saving in nickel content and a significant reduction in unwanted carbon deposition through thermal decomposition of methane and the Boudouard reaction. The use of a catalyst with a low active metal content produced via a hydrothermal route provides an attractive and sustainable method of production of synthesis gas from both methane and biogas for potential use in solid oxide fuel cells