ANS:C - nickel oxide on alumina support

Nickel oxide on alumina support refers to a catalyst used in various chemical processes, particularly in the steam reforming of hydrocarbons such as naphtha to produce synthesis gas (syngas). Here's an explanation of each component:

1. Nickel Oxide (NiO): Nickel oxide serves as the active catalytic component in the catalyst. Nickel is a transition metal that exhibits catalytic properties, particularly in reactions involving hydrogen and carbon-containing compounds. In the steam reforming process, nickel facilitates the decomposition of hydrocarbons and the water-gas shift reaction, leading to the production of hydrogen and carbon monoxide.
2. Alumina Support: Alumina (Al2O3) serves as the support material for the nickel oxide catalyst. Alumina is an inert, high-surface-area material that provides structural support to the active catalytic component (nickel oxide) and helps maintain its physical integrity during the catalytic process. Additionally, alumina can enhance the dispersion of the nickel oxide particles, leading to increased catalytic activity and surface area available for reactions.

The combination of nickel oxide and alumina support offers several advantages in catalytic processes:

• High Activity: Nickel oxide is known for its high catalytic activity in steam reforming and other reactions involving hydrogen and carbon compounds.
• Thermal Stability: Alumina support provides thermal stability to the catalyst, allowing it to withstand the high temperatures encountered during the reforming process without significant degradation.
• Increased Surface Area: The porous structure of alumina support increases the surface area available for catalytic reactions, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the catalyst.
• Resistance to Sintering: Sintering refers to the undesired agglomeration or coalescence of catalyst particles, which can reduce catalytic activity. Alumina support helps prevent sintering by providing mechanical support and preventing the migration of nickel oxide particles.

Overall, nickel oxide on alumina support is a widely used catalyst in industrial processes such as steam reforming, where it plays a crucial role in the conversion of hydrocarbons into valuable synthesis gas components, such as hydrogen and carbon monoxide.