Effect of preparation and operation conditions on the catalytic performance of cobalt-based catalysts for light olefins production

Cobalt-based catalysts were prepared by precipitation method. This research investigated the effects of different supports cobalt loading, promoters, loading of promoters and calcination conditions on the catalytic performance of cobalt catalysts for Fisher–Tropsch synthesis (FTS). It was found that the catalyst containing 40 wt.% Co/TiO2 promoted with 6 wt.% Zn was an optimal catalyst for the conversion of synthesis gas to hydrocarbons especially light olefins. The activity and selectivity of optimal catalyst were studied in different operational conditions. The results showed that the best operational conditions were the H2/CO = 2/1 molar feed ratio at 240 °C and GHSV = 1100 h−1 under atmospheric pressure. Characterization of catalysts were carried out by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), hydrogen temperature program reduction (H2-TPR), N2 physisorption measurements such as Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) and Barrett–Joyner–Halenda (BJH) methods.

Graphical abstractThe catalyst containing 40 wt.% Co/TiO2 was promoted with 6 wt.% Zn were studied for light olefins production. The effects of preparation variable conditions and different supports with loading of the optimum support were investigated.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► We examine Co/TiO2 catalyst promoted with 6 wt.% Zn for light olefins production. ► This catalyst is superior catalyst for C2–C4 olefins. ► The reaction conditions were found 240 °C, 1 bar, H2/CO=2/1 and GHSV=1100 h−1. ► Methane selectivity decreased from 16.6 to 9.3% by using this catalyst.