Nanocatalyst stable in petrochemical processes synthesized in Iran

Chemical engineers from Sahand University of Industry in Iran's Northwestern city of Tabriz succeeded in the production of a nanocatalyst to be used in processes that provide the feed for petrochemical units. The nanocatalyst has high stability and efficiency and reduces the costs of production and energy supply. The research was carried out in Reactor and Catalysis Research Center of Sahand University of Industry located in Tabriz. In this research, Ni-Co/Al2O3-MgO-ZrO2 nanocatalysts were produced with various concentrations of MgO and their structural properties and catalytic activities were compared. Due to the use of appropriate and optimum strengtheners and proper production method, the produced catalyst has higher lifetime and yield. In this research, the production of synthesis gas was also studied with equal ratio of H2 to CO at 750°C, which takes place at a temperature 100°C lower than using usual catalysts. Among the catalysts used in dry reforming of methane, catalysts that have an active nickel phase are cost-effective and have appropriate activity. However, they quickly become inactive due to the deposition of carbonic compounds after a short while. In order to improve stability and catalytic activity, the three following methods can be used: strengthening the active phase, strengthening the base of catalyst, and implementation of better production methods. The nanocatalyst produced in this research showed appropriate and desirable stability and activity, and no reduction was observed in its performance. Results of the research have been published in Journal of Sol-Gel Science and Technology, vol. 70, issue 1, April 2014, pp. 111-124.