Partial oxidation of methane to synthesis gas over supported ruthenium catalysts

Abstract

The partial oxidation of methane to synthesis gas has been investigated over Ru supported on SiO2, γ-Al2O3, YSZ (Yttria-stabilized zirconia) and TiO2 catalysts in the temperature range of 550-750°C. The results show that the RU/TiO2 catalyst exhibits high selectivity (up to 65%) to synthesis gas in the low methane conversion range, whereas all other catalysts yield zero selectivity under similar conditions. Isotopic labeling experiments demonstrate that the direct partial oxidation route is largely responsible for the high CO and H2 selectivity at low methane conversions, observed over the Ru/TiO2 catalyst. © 1997 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.