Synthesis of multi-component cobalt based catalysts with different metal
precursors and thermal treatment was performed. A special emphasis was
put on promotion with ceria. Catalysts, which were synthesized from
thermally pre-activated CoCO₃·mCo(OH)₂·nH₂O
as a precursor and thereafter underwent reduction in flowing hydrogen,
have a clear tendency for decomposition of mixed aluminum–cobalt
containing complexes, inevitably formed during thermal treatment. The
catalysts were tested in steam reforming of hydrocarbons. The size of
metal particles in reduced catalysts was determined by TEM and related
to catalytic activity.