Pd/Si3N4 catalysts: preparation, characterization and catalytic activity for the methane oxidation Original Research Article

Silicon nitride (Si3N4) is a refractory material showing high thermal conductivity at high temperature. We can therefore expect very good stability for both the catalytic phase and the support when using it as a support of active phases, even for very exothermic reactions occurring at high temperature.Pd supported on silicon nitride catalysts were prepared by impregnation of Si3N4 with Pd(II) acetylacetonate. The catalytic precursors were decomposed under oxygen at 350°C and reduced under hydrogen at 300°C; they were tested for the methane total oxidation reaction. Such catalysts were found to be highly stable, even after ageing at temperatures higher than 800°C under the reactive (oxidizing) mixture.