Use of probe molecules for Fischer–Tropsch mechanistic investigations: A short review

The Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS) mechanism is still not fully understood and the product distribution does not generally follow a typical Anderson–Schulz–Flory (ASF) distribution. In order to improve the understanding of the reaction mechanism and in an attempt to explain the deviations observed from the ASF distribution, additives such as olefins, alcohols, carbon dioxide, water, and isotope markers, have been used in the FTS. This paper briefly reviews the effect of additives and their impact on the FTS mechanism.

Secondary olefin reactions in Fischer Tropsch synthesis (H. Schulz, M. Claeys, Applied Catalysis A: General 186 (1999) 71).Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (99 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► The effect of additives on the mechanism of FTS is reviewed.
► Additives initiate chain growth, but are not incorporated in the growing chain.
► Selectivity of FTS could be based on active site modification by syngas additives.