Advances in dry reforming of methane: thermodynamics, reaction mechanisms, kinetics, catalyst design, and future prospects

Abstract

Abstract The utilization of CO2 and CH4 through dry reforming of methane (DRM) offers a promising pathway for syngas production while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. However, its practical application is hindered by rapid catalyst deactivation due to coke formation, metal sintering, and instability under high-temperature conditions. This review critically examines recent advances in DRM catalyst design, focusing on the interplay between reaction thermodynamics, kinetics, and catalyst architecture. Ni-based catalysts, bimetallic systems, and promoted supports are discussed in terms of their roles in enhancing CO2 activation, oxygen mobility, and resistance to deactivation. Advanced synthesis techniques, including atomic layer deposition, flame spray pyrolysis, and plasma-assisted methods, are highlighted for their ability to control metal dispersion and metal–support interactions. Special emphasis is placed on core–shell structures, where optimized shell composition and porosity enable improved stability by regulating sintering and carbon formation pathways. Overall, this review provides an integrated framework linking fundamental reaction constraints with catalyst design strategies, offering insights for the development of robust and scalable DRM catalysts.