Zeolite-Templated NiO Nanostructure for Methanol Oxidation Reaction

Abstract

NiO nano particles with particle size of 10.0 to 15.0 nm using zeolite as a template were successfully prepared and loaded (NiO 10 wt.%) on functionalized carbon nanofibers (CNFs). The as-prepared material NiO-CNFs was characterized and tested as an electrocatalyst and a catalyst for the methanol conversion. Electrocatalytic results showed high stability which was evinced by repetitive cycles as a result of catalyst surface activation. Gas phase catalytic tests were carried out at 290oC over NiO-CNFs catalyst in fresh, reduced, and oxidized forms. The results showed that dimethyl ether (DME) and CO2 were obtained as main products. Formaldehyde (FA), methyl formate (MF) and dimethoxymethane (DMM) were obtained as traces. The conversion of methanol in the absence of H2 or O2 over inactivated NiO-CNFs catalyst suggested that DME reacts with the formed H2O to produce CO2. In both cases, reactivation of the catalyst by H2 (reduction) or by Air (oxidation), the conversion was increased indicating a regeneration of the catalyst.