Evaluation of MoS2 based catalysts for the conversion of syngas into alcohols: A combinatorial approach

72 MoS2 catalysts were tested in the conversion of syngas to alcohols, using a high-throughput catalyst evaluation unit, to identify the best catalyst, based on CO conversion, both ethanol and higher alcohols and total alcohols selectivity. Catalysts prepared by thermal decomposition of (NH4)2MoS4 at low temperature showed a higher selectivity to total alcohols. The highest selectivity to ethanol and higher alcohols was obtained at 300 °C by a catalyst prepared by reacting Mo(CO)6 with sulphur. Catalysts prepared by thermal decomposition of (NH4)2MoS4 at high temperature showed very low activity. Catalysts prepared by thermal decomposition of (NH4)2MoS4 in tridecane/water with hydrogen atmosphere showed low activity and selectivity. There was no significant difference among the alkaline metal promoters K, Cs and Rb regarding total alcohols selectivities. Incorporation of Co and Ni led to catalysts with activity levels equivalent to catalysts that contain Rh.