Local structure analysis of nanostructured Pt/CeO2 catalysts for photothermal methane dry reforming

Dry reforming of methane (DRM) is a promising approach to tackle excess greenhouse gases and convert it into syngas for further usage. The main obstacle for DRM is the lack of reforming catalysts with high catalytic activity and high stability due to the high operating temperatures required and coke deposition. The high temperature imposes another challenge of the high energy demand needed to drive the endothermal reaction. A promising approach is to combine a photothermal DRM process with single atom Pt catalysts on CeO2 to overcome the beforehand mentioned limitations. It is an effective strategy to manipulate the coordination environment of Pt atoms to promote the cracking of C–H bonds limiting carbon deposition and prevent deactivation. Herein, the electronic structure of Pt was successfully regulated through dispersed Pt single atoms, Pt clusters and Pt particles. The Pt2/CeO2 catalyst showed excellent activity and carbon anti-deposition capability to prevent deactivation.