Partial oxidation of methane to synthesis gas over Rh-hexaaluminate-based catalysts

The partial oxidation of methane to synthesis gas over catalysts consisting of Rh supported on hexaaluminates (BaAl12O19, CaAl12O19 and SrAl12O19) was investigated at atmospheric pressure and high reactant dilution in order t o compare their performances within the kinetic-controlling regime. Compari son with the results obtained over a commercial Rh/alpha-Al2O3 system indic ates that hexaaluminate catalysts are active and selective in this reaction . Despite of the higher surface area of the support, hexaaluminate-supporte d catalysts were found less stable, active and selective than an alpha-Al2O 3-supported catalyst.