Enhanced sintering resistance of NiFe-based RWGS catalysts through Cu doping

The reverse water-gas shift (RWGS) reaction offers an effective method for mitigating CO₂ emissions. Due to its affordability and physicochemical stability, iron has garnered significant attention as a potential catalyst for RWGS. The incorporation of nickel and copper promoters can enhance CO₂ conversion and CO selectivity in Fe-based catalysts. This study focuses on modifying the strength of the Strong Metal-Support Interaction (SMSI) through particle size optimization. Doping Cu into NiFe-based catalysts restricts particle size, which influences the curvature of the Ni⁰@FeO_x interface. This curvature enhances the electron coupling between Ni⁰ and FeO_x, promoting the formation of a denser and thicker Ni⁰ and FeO_x layer. This results in a nearly 90% increase in the CO₂ reaction rate during the sintering resistance test by anchoring Ni⁰ and facilitating electron transfer to active sites. Such morphological evolution improves high-temperature resistance to sintering during RWGS. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.