Abstract:
The present invention generally relates to catalysts comprising at least one oxidized active metal; at least one lanthanide; and a refractory support. The active metal is selected from the group consisting of rhodium, ruthenium, rhenium, platinum, palladium, iridium, and osmium. In particular, the present invention relates to catalysts effective for initiating and sustaining the partial oxidation of light hydrocarbons, preferably methane, to a product mixture comprising carbon monoxide and hydrogen, e.g. synthesis gas. The present invention still further discloses a method of making a supported synthesis gas catalyst comprising an oxidized metal and at least one lanthanide.