Catalytic Performance of Metal Nanoparticles Supported by Ceramic Composite Produced by Partial Reduction of Solid Solution with Dopant

A composite with well-dispersed metal nanoparticles at a ceramic surface was produced by partial reduction of solid solution. It was found that a small amount of dopant, such as Al2O3, Cr2O3, or Sc2O3, accelerated the precipitation of the metal nanoparticles during the reduction. Catalytic performance of the composite for methanol reforming was evaluated. In the Ni-based catalysts, the dopant decreased the CO production by promoting a methanation reaction, while in the Co-based catalysts, the dopant did it by inducing a water–gas shift reaction. Co/MgO with Sc2O3 doping showed the most preferable reforming performance, high H2 production, and CO2 selectivity.