Characterization of filamentous carbon on Ni/MgO catalysts by high-resolution electron microscopy

David Smith, Martha McCartney, E. Tracz, T. Borowiecki

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

High-resolution electron microscopy has been used to characterize the filamentous carbon deposits which are obtained during the steam-reforming of n-butane, as catalyzed by Ni supported on MgO. Lower reaction temperatures ( ∼ 400-500°C) resulted in partially graphitic filamentous fibers, with small crystals, identified as predominantly Ni, usually located at the fiber tip. Higher reaction temperatures ( ∼ 650-700°C) gave carbon tubes or shells with a more highly developed graphitic nature, while the microcrystals at the ends of the tubes, identified as mainly NiO, were typically encapsulated by several graphitic sheets. Overall, these results are further confirmation that the morphology of the carbon deposits, and their growth mechanism, is independent of the type of catalyst and the particular catalytic reaction.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)54-59
Number of pages6
JournalUltramicroscopy
Volume34
Issue number1-2
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 1990

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
  • Instrumentation

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Characterization of filamentous carbon on Ni/MgO catalysts by high-resolution electron microscopy'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this