An active and stable NiOMgO solid solution based catalysts prepared by paper assisted combustion synthesis for the dry reforming of methane

•Paper assisted combustion synthesis (PACS) was developed to prepare NiOMgO solid solutions.•The PACS method produced solid solutions with surface areas of up to 140 m2/g.•Upon reduction, Ni segregated to the surface of NiOMgO resulting in active catalysts for the dry reforming of methane.•Catalyst containing 10 wt.% of Ni exhibited highest catalytic activity and stability with lowest amount of carbon formation.