Effect of cobalt addition on the structure and properties of Ni–MCM-41 for the partial oxidation of methane to syngas

A one-step hydrothermal crystallization method was used to synthesize Co–Ni–MCM-41 catalysts for the partial oxidation of methane to syngas reaction. Co was added as an assistant in the synthesis process. The formation of a Ni–Co alloy decreased the damage of Ni ions to the framework of MCM-41. The Ni–Co alloy introduced more Ni into the channel exposing more active sites. The properties of the synthesized catalysts were characterized by XRD, N(2) adsorption–desorption, TEM, ICP, FT-IR, H(2)-TPR, XPS and TGA techniques. Co–Ni–MCM-41 catalysts showed superior catalytic performance and sintering resistance than Ni–MCM-41 catalyst without Co. The Ni–Co alloy inhibited the formation of the NiO, thus reducing the sintering of the catalyst. The result was attributed to higher metal dispersion and more regular pore structure of the Co–Ni–MCM-41 catalysts. When the Co content was 1%, a conversion of 88% and selectivity of 87% was achieved.