Abstract: A Cu/ZnO/Al₂O₃ catalyst prepared by adding CO₂ during the aging step was used for methanol synthesis from CO₂ and H₂. The catalysts were characterized by N₂ adsorption-desorption, X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscope, temperature-programmed decomposition, and temperature-programmed reduction. The precursor from the modified method with added CO₂ had malachite and hydrotalcite-like phases and was more stable than that of the sample without added CO₂. After calcination, the modified catalyst had a higher surface area, larger pore volume, and smaller particle size. The modified catalyst gave a higher activity for methanol synthesis from CO₂ hydrogenation in the reaction temperature range of 200–260 ºC.

Key words: carbon dioxide assisted aging, copper, zinc oxide, alumina, hydrogenation of carbon dioxide, methanol synthesis