Non-noble metal catalysts for dry reforming of methane: Challenges, opportunities, and future directions

¹ Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
² Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, UTM Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
³ Department of Chemistry, Sokoto State University, PMB 2134, Airport Road, Sokoto - Nigeria
⁴ Institute of Applied Technology and Sustainable Development, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 298-300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City 755414, Vietnam

^* Corresponding author: mahadibahari@utm.my

Abstract

The utilization of non-noble metal catalysts for the dry reforming of methane (DRM) has gained significant attention in recent years due to the increasing demand for clean and sustainable energy sources. DRM involves the conversion of methane (CH4) and carbon (IV) oxide (CO₂) into synthesis gas (syngas), a valuable mixture of hydrogen (H₂) and carbon monoxide (CO). Commercialization of non-noble metal catalysts for this reaction presents several challenges that must be addressed to achieve practical implementation. This short review discusses the challenges, opportunities, and future directions of non-noble metal catalysts for DRM. First, the limitations associated with the intrinsic activity and stability of non-noble metals, such as nickel, cobalt, and iron, are explored. Enhancing catalyst performance through compositional modifications, the incorporation of promoters and supports, are ways to overcome these challenges. Directions that hold promise for advancing non-noble metal catalysts in DRM, including the advanced exploration of bimetallic catalysts for synergistic effects, and the integration of non-noble metals into novel catalytic systems, were among the future proposals, while non-noble metal catalysts have the potential to revolutionize the production of syngas and contribute significantly to the transition towards sustainable energy solutions.