Abstract

Daifallah M. Aldhayan

DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.13005/ojc/340549

NiO nano particles with particle size of 10.0 to 15.0 nm using zeolite as a template were successfully prepared and loaded (NiO 10 wt.%) on functionalized carbon nanofibers (CNFs). The as-prepared material NiO-CNFs was characterized and tested as an electrocatalyst and a catalyst for the methanol conversion. Electrocatalytic results showed high stability which was evinced by repetitive cycles as a result of catalyst surface activation. Gas phase catalytic tests were carried out at 290^oC over NiO-CNFs catalyst in fresh, reduced, and oxidized forms.  The results showed that dimethyl ether (DME) and CO₂ were obtained as main products. Formaldehyde (FA), methyl formate (MF) and dimethoxymethane (DMM) were obtained as traces. The conversion of methanol in the absence of H₂ or O₂ over inactivated NiO-CNFs catalyst suggested that DME reacts with the formed H₂O to produce CO₂. In both cases, reactivation of the catalyst by H₂ (reduction) or by Air (oxidation), the conversion was increased indicating a regeneration of the catalyst.

Electrocatalyst; Fuel Cell; Methanol Oxidation; Microporous; NiO Nanoparticles; Template; Zeolite

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