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 comprisin g 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 hav e been activated by heating in a reducing environment. The preferred catalysts convert hydrocarbons to syngas primarily by a predominantly partial oxidatio n 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.