New molten metal catalysts for CO2 and CH4 conversion to 2 : 1 H2 : CO syngas

Abstract

Activity trends for 22 metals and metal alloys are reported for the conversion of CO₂ and CH₄ to 2 : 1 H₂ : CO syngas and carbon. A correlation is observed between CO₂ conversion and the free energy of oxidation by CO₂ on pure metal catalysts. Indium and indium alloys activate CO₂ at the highest rates. We identify a new bifunctional 20 : 80 mol% Sn–In alloy that activates both CO₂ and CH₄ while catalyzing both reactions.