Catalytic effects of ruthenium particle size on the Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis

This work investigates the catalytic consequences of Ru cluster size in the Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis (FTS). Ru/Al2O3 catalysts with different metal particles size have been obtained by treating the solid in pure H2 at increasing temperatures and times. Steady-state isotopic transient kinetic analysis (SSITKA) has been carried out at 523 K, 5.5 kPa CO, 55 kPa H2, and 124.5 kPa inert in order to determine surface residence times and coverage of reversibly bonded CO and CHx intermediates as a function of Ru particle size (4–23 nm). We have found that FTS with Ru-based catalysts is a highly structure-sensitive reaction when Ru < 10 nm. In this range, turnover frequency of CO consumption (TOFCO) increases as the particle size increases, reaching a constant value for Ru particles larger than 10 nm. The lower intrinsic activity shown by Ru clusters <10 nm may be related to the stronger CO adsorption and concomitant partial blocking of active sites, as suggested by the decreased CO surface residence time as the Ru cluster size increases in the range below 10 nm.

Graphical abstractRu size matters: This work investigates the catalytic consequences of Ru cluster size (4–23 nm) in the Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis. This reaction is structure sensitive when Ru < 10 nm: turnover frequency of CO consumption increases as Ru size increases from 4 to 10 nm, reaching a constant value for larger clusters.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (71 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► The performance of Ru catalysts for the synthesis of hydrocarbons is dominated by Ru particle size. ► Ru particles between 8–10 nm show the maximum rate for hydrocarbon production. ► Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis is a structure-sensitive reaction when Ru particles are smaller than 10 nm.