Abstract: The catalytic activity of Ni/α-Al₂O₃ for partial oxidation of methane to synthesis gas has been studied. It is found that the catalyst of 10% Ni content was the best one for partial oxidation of methane under the conditions of 600～900℃ reaction temperature, 0.05 MPa pressure, a high space velocity of methane, and CH₄/O₂=2 0. Under the conditions used the methane conversion and the selectivity of CO and H₂ were increased with increase of temperature(600～900℃)and decreased with increase of pressure(0.05 MPa～0.4 MPa)the space velocity influenced the catalyst activity. During the reaction, Ni component was found to be sintered and diminished, as confirmed by SEM observations and chemical analysis.

Key words: methane, partial oxidation, synthesis gas, Ni/α-Al₂O₃ catalyst