LAUSR

Abstract Ni/SiO2 catalysts are prepared via plasma-induced micro-combustion method in this study. The process during micro-combustion is analyzed and the catalysts are applied for syngas methanation. Discrete combustion is observed in the process of plasma-induced micro-combustion. X-ray diffraction, Temperature programmed reduction together with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy disclose that highly dispersed NiO strongly interacting with SiO2 generates when prepared via micro-combustion method. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscope verifies the smaller metal Ni particles after reduction. Thus, NiO aggregation is prevent and strong interaction between NiO and SiO2 restrained metal Ni sintering during reduction via moderate micro-combustion. The as-prepared Ni catalysts also own higher surface areas, higher pore volumes and pore diameters. These characters prominently enhance the activity and stability of catalysts in syngas methanation. This work provides a promising method to synthesize nanoscale materials.