Abstract |
LnCu(2) (Ln = La, Ce, Gd, Tm) binary copper-f block element intermetallic compounds were tested as catalysts for the production of methanol using greenhouse gases (CO2 and CH4) as feedstock. The best results were obtained with PrCu2 and LaCu2, which are more active for the production of methanol than a commercial Cu based catalyst (Alfa Aesar, 45776-0500) using CO2 + H-2 (1:3) or CH4 + CO2 + H-2 (1:1:3) in the feed composition. The selectivity is also very high (>80\%), but the incorporation of CH4 to the feedstock has a negative effect on the catalyst s behavior. LnCu(2) also present a remarkable long term stability for at least 50 h on the gaseous stream. To our knowledge, the results herein described are among the best reported until now. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. |