Bulk nickel catalysts and processes for the production of syngas

摘要

A method is disclosed for the catalytic conversion of light hydrocarbons to synthesis gas. The method involves the contacting of a feed stream comprising the hydrocarbon feedstock and an O2-containing gas with a catalyst in a reaction zone maintained at conversion-promoting conditions effective to produce an effluent stream comprising carbon monoxide and hydrogen. The preferred catalysts of the invention comprise bulk nickel monoliths that have been activated by heating in a reducing environment. The preferred catalysts convert hydrocarbons to syngas primarily by a predominantly partial oxidation reaction and retain a high level of activity and selectivity to carbon monoxide and hydrogen under conditions of elevated pressure, high gas space velocity and high temperature in a short contact time reactor.