Reduced perovskite LaNiO₃ catalysts modified with Co and Mn for low coke formation in dry reforming of methane

In dry reforming of methane (DRM), coke deposition on the Ni-based catalyst is the main cause of instability of the process. Perovskite LaNiO₃ is a well-known highly active catalyst precursor for DRM, but the La-Ni catalyst derived from it is susceptible to severe coke deposition and thus difficult for practical applications. To improve its stability and activity, Co and Mn are introduced to develop a tri-metallic LaNi_0.34Co_0.33Mn_0.33O₃ catalyst precursor. The role of Mn is to improve the stability of the catalyst, whereas Co is an additional active component to increase the reaction rates. A strong metal and support interaction mediated by MnO is noted in the tri-metallic catalyst, which contributes to a synergistic effect of the tri-metals to sustain the high activity and stability under the harsh conditions of DRM.