MgO/NiAl2O4 as a new formulation of reforming catalysts: Tuning the surface properties for the enhanced partial oxidation of methane

•MgO/NiAl2O4 catalysts were prepared by precipitation followed by wet-impregnation.•The influence of the MgO loading on chemical and structural properties was examined.•Highly dispersed Mg species promoted the partial oxidation of methane.•The deposition of MgO enhanced the resistance against metallic nickel sintering.•An optimum 5wt.%MgO loading resulted in the lowest strong basicity.