Methane conversion over nanostructured pt/gamma-Al2O3 catalysts in dielectric-barrier discharge

Abstract

Spherical nanostructured gamma-Al2O3 granules were prepared by combining the modified Yoldas process and oil-drop method, followed by the Pt impregnation inside mesopores of the granules by incipient wetness method. Prepared Pt/gamma-Al2O3 catalysts were reduced by novel method using plasma, which was named plasma assisted reduction (PAR), and then used for methane conversion in dielectric-barrier discharge (DBD). The effect of Pt loading, calcination temperature on methane conversion, and selectivities and yields of products were investigated. Prepared Pt/gamma-Al2O3 catalysts were successfully reduced by PAR. The main products of methane conversion were the light alkanes such as C,H6, C3H8 and C4H10 when the catalytic plasma reaction was carried out with Pt/gamma-Al2O3 catalyst. Methane conversion was in the range of 38-40% depending on Pt loading and calcination temperature. The highest yield of C,H, was 12.7% with 1 wt% Pt/gamma-Al2O3 catalysts after calcinations at 500 degrees C.