Abstract

Biochar ( BC ), a by‐product from the fast pyrolysis of rice husk, was activated by chemical and physical process. The activated biochar ( ABC ) showed graphite‐like morphology and had a large amount of random pores with BET surface area of 1058 m²/g. The biochar properties observed by further characterization revealed its feasibility to be used as a catalyst support. Syngas methanation as a probe reaction was utilized to characterize biochar supported Ru catalyst. The catalytic performance of the Ru/ ABC catalyst in methanation was superior or comparable to the conventional activated carbon ( AC ) supported Ru catalyst. A high CH ₄ selectivity of 98% and a CO conversion of 100% were obtained under the proper reaction conditions over the Ru/ ABC catalyst.

Biochar, a by‐product from the fast pyrolysis of rice husk, was activated to form porous material with BET surface area of 1058 m²/g. Methanation was used as a probe reaction to investigate the biochar supported Ru catalyst. The catalyst demonstrated excellent activity, CH₄ selectivity and stability in syngas methanation, which was superior or comparable to the commercial activated carbon supported catalyst.