Effect of biomass-derived synthesis gas impurity elements on cobalt Fischer-Tropsch catalyst performance including in situ sulphur and nitrogen addition

► The effect of biomass imposed impurities on FT catalysis has been established. ► The measured turnover frequency (TOF) correlates with electronegativity. ► No poisonous effect of chlorine was found, rather an enhanced TOF. ► Sulphur deactivates the catalysts stoichiometrically. ► Sulphur does not affect the primary Fischer-Tropsch product distribution.