Abstract: A series of ternary perovskite type oxides LaNi_1-xCu_xO₃ (x = 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0) were synthesized via the sol-gel method in propionic acid. Partial substitution of Ni by Cu showed higher activities and selectivities towards syngas products. LaNi_0.8Cu_0.2O₃ was the most active toward the CH₄ and CO₂ conversions, and was selective for syngas products. Temperature-programmed reduction results showed that the addition of Cu facilitates the reduction of Ni³⁺ to Ni⁰, which is the main reason for the higher performance of this catalyst.

Key words: dry reforming of methane, perovskite, lanthanun, nickel, sol-gel method