3.1.2. FESEM analysis
The FESEM images of the Ni-based nanocatalysts are illustrated in Fig. 8. The left and right images are for supports and Ni-based nanocatalysts, respectively. Ni addition to clinoptilolite improves surface morphology and decreases particle size. These tiny particles enhance accessibility and improve catalytic performance. The images confirm the presence of nanoscale particles. The Ni/CeO2 particles are bigger than CeO2 support but the Al2O3 and Ni/Al2O3 have almost the same particles size. The images do not show any agglomeration and accumulation of particles which means the synthesis method and its condition is desired.
3.1.3. EDX analysis
EDX analyses for the synthesised nanocatalysts are demonstrated in Fig. 9. All used elements in the fabricating method are
clearly observed in the EDX spectra. As seen, Ni species is well dispersed on Ni/CeO2 nanocatalyst which was clearly confirmed in the XRD results. Also, Al and Ni species in the Ni/Al2O3 nanocatalyst have very low aggregation which confirmed by FESEM and XRD results. Also, NiO species on Ni/Clinoptilolite nanocatalyst is relatively well dispersed. The high dispersion of the particles leads to improved access and increased activity.