Unveiling the Catalytic Performance and Mechanisms of La0.9Ca0.1NiO3 Catalysts with Copper Substitution in Anti-Coking Dry Reforming

The challenge of carbon deposition in Ni-based catalysts poses a significant hurdle for the sustainable utilization of carbon dioxide through dry reforming of methane (DRM). To address this, our research has led to enhanced catalytic performance and improved resistance to carbon deposition, achieved by partially substituting Cu for Ni in the composition of La0.9Ca0.1NiO3-based perovskite catalysts. Specifically, Ni9Cu1 (Ni/Cu molar ratio = 9:1) catalyst demonstrated reduced metal particle sizes, increased CO2 utilization efficiency and comparable metal–support interaction with Ni10Cu0. Ni9Cu1 catalysts showed strong carbon resistance with minimal coke formation after a 24 h stability test, while Ni10Cu0 catalysts had over 30% carbon deposition. In summary, the strategic inclusion of Cu at the B-site of La0.9Ca0.1NiO3 catalyst optimized a delicate equilibrium between carbon formation and elimination to give superb coke resistance in DRM.