Solution Combustion Synthesis of Nanostructured NiCr2O4 Spinel and Its Catalytic Activity in CO Oxidation

Abstract

Nanoscale NiCr 2 O 4 spinel powders were prepared by solution combustion synthesis (SCS) from aqueous solutions of chromium/nickel nitrates as oxidants, urea as a fuel, and nitric acid and characterized by SEM/EDS, XRD, and porosity measurements. The catalytic activity of synthesized powders in conversion of CO to CO 2 was determined and compared with that of supported Pd catalysts. An optimized composition of starting solution afforded for preparation of powders containing 93% of NiCr 2 O 4 spinel without additional calcining. This powder showed good CO-to-CO 2 conversion in the temperature range 150-300°С and can be recommended for practical implementation.