Efficient La–Ba–MgO Supported Ru Catalysts for Ammonia Synthesis

Novel Ru-based catalysts were prepared by impregnating 2 wt% Ru 3 (CO) 12 into rare earth (La, Sm, Ce) and barium doped nano-magnesia (RE–Ba–MgO) supports, which were originally prepared by chemical co-precipitation with ultrasonic treatment. The Ru/RE–Ba–MgO catalyst exhibits higher activity, more than three times of that of conventional Ba–Ru/MgO base on water impregnation. Characterization of this catalyst by various techniques reveals that the chemical and textural properties of nano Ba–MgO supports and formation state of barium in support are key factors responsible for the elevated activity of this catalyst. Graphical Abstract Novel Ru-based catalysts (Ru/RE–Ba–MgO) were prepared in this paper, the novel catalyst exhibits higher activity, more than three times of that of conventional Ba–Ru/MgO. The chemical and textural properties of supports and formation state of barium in support are key factors responsible for the elevated activity of this catalyst.