Knowledge Bank

We present the infrared and Raman spectra of a heterogeneous nickel-alumina catalyst that could be used in a coal methanation reactor. They will be compared to the spectra of these catalysts which have been exposed to synthesis gas $(CO+H2)$ with temperatures near $350\circ C$ and pressures up to 35 $\times 105N/m2$. The spectral effects of sulphur poisoning will be described. Spectral interpretation of adsorbed acetylenic and olefinic compounds is accomplished through this comparison and through the use of group theoretical analysis, desorption experiments and characteristic vibrational frequencies. A possible methanation reaction mechanism is presented and compared to previously proposed mechanisms.