Fischer-Tropsch synthesis: Characterizing and reaction testing of Co2C/SiO2 and Co2C/Al2O3 catalysts

SiO2- and Al2O3-supported Co2C catalysts were prepared by carburizing supported Co precursors with CO. The catalysts were characterized by N2 physisorption, X-ray diffraction and H2 temperature-programmed reduction techniques, and evaluated by the Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) reaction. The results showed that SiO2- and Al2O3-supported Co2C catalysts could be successfully obtained but sufficient carburization time was required. All of the as-prepared supported Co2C catalysts exhibited activity and selectivity towards alcohols. It is considered that surface metallic Co species contributed to the activity, surface Co2C species were responsible for the formation of alcohols, and bulk Co2C species were inert during the F-T reaction.

Graphical AbstractSiO2- and Al2O3-supported Co2C catalysts for alcohol synthesis were prepared by carburizing the corresponding supported Co precursors with CO. All of the as-prepared supported Co2C catalysts exhibited activity and selectivity for alcohols.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide