The catalytic performance of Ni supported on Ce-promoted ZnAl2O4 was evaluated in methane dry reforming. The effect of different nominal loadings of cerium (3, 5 and 7 wt%) in the activity, product yield and stability was studied. Ce presented a promote effect in catalytic activity, product yield and especially in stability. However the catalytic performance was considerably influenced by the amount of cerium. SEM images presented smaller particles and TPR profiles revealed stronger active phase/support interaction by Ce addition which led to increasing methane conversion and decreasing coke deposition. Although high amount of Ce was not in favor of its promoting effect due to aggregation of CeO2 on the catalyst surface. Among the catalysts investigated, the optimal catalytic activity and stability was achieved over the sample with 5 wt% of cerium.
