2022 Annual Meeting

Synthesis of Supported Nanocatalysts for CO2 Methanation

Natural gas consists mostly of methane gas (CH4), also known as
Renewable Natural Gas (RNG). RNG is commonly produced
through the decomposition of organic matter. However, there are
other ways to produce RNG. Methane can be produced from a
variety of renewable and sustainable sources. CH4 is a result of a
CO2 Methanation reaction, which is essentially defined as
converting H2 and CO2 into CH4. Methanation reactions tend to
express carbon monoxide buildup. Methanation catalysts are utilized
to selectively produce methane instead. This research is unique
because methanation nanocatalysts were synthesized. Nanocatalysts
provide a larger surface area for the reaction to take place, increasing
the product yield. Two top-performing nanocatalysts are the focus:
nickel on gamma alumina and nickel on ceria.