Abstract: Nano-structured noble metal catalysts based on hexametallate lattices, of a spinel block type, and which are resistant to carbon deposition and metal sulfide formation are provided. The catalysts are designed for the reforming of hydrocarbon fuels to synthesis gas. The hexametallate lattices are doped with noble metals (Au, Pt, Rh, Ru) which are atomically dispersed as isolated sites throughout the lattice and take the place of hexametallate metal ions such as Cr, Ga, In, and/or Nb. Mirror cations in the crystal lattice are selected from alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, and the lanthanide metals, so as to reduce the acidity of the catalyst crystal lattice and enhance the desorption of carbon deposit forming moieties such as aromatics. The catalysts can be used at temperatures as high as 1000° C. and pressures up to 30 atmospheres. A method for producing these catalysts and applications of their use also is provided.

Abstract: A metal substituted hexaaluminate catalyst for reforming hydrocarbon fuels to synthesis gas of the general formula AByAl12-yO19-?, A being selected from alkali metals, alkaline earth metals and lanthanide metals or mixtures thereof. A dopant or surface modifier selected from a transitions metal, a spinel of an oxygen-ion conductor is incorporated. The dopant may be Ca, Cs, K, La, Sr, Ba, Li, Mg, Ce, Co, Fe, Ir, Rh, Ni, Ru, Cu, Pe, Os, Pd, Cr, Mn, W, Re, Sn, Gd, V, Ti, Ag, Au, and mixtures thereof. The oxygen-ion conductor may be a perovskite selected from M?RhO3, M?PtO3, M?PdO3, M?IrO3, M?RuO3 wherein M?=Mg, Sr, Ba, La, Ca; a spinel selected from MRh2O4, MPt2O4, MPd2O4, MIr2O4, MRu2O4 wherein M=Mg, Sr, Ba, La, Ca and mixtures thereof; a florite is selected from M?O2.