Comparison of patented Co F–T catalysts using fixed-bed and slurry bubble column reactors

Abstract

This paper addresses the current generation of patented cobalt-based Fischer–Tropsch catalysts. It provides an overview of the patent literature and an experimental comparison at the same reaction conditions of a number of the more important patented catalysts. Based on information provided in patents assigned to Gulf, Shell, Exxon, and Statoil, a series of catalysts was prepared consisting of 12–20 wt% cobalt, a second metal promoter (Ru or Re), and an oxide promoter such as lanthana, zirconia, or alkali oxide, the support being alumina, silica, or titania. All catalysts were extensively characterized by different methods. In addition, the catalysts were evaluated in terms of their F–T activity and selectivity, both in a fixed-bed reactor and in a slurry bubble column reactor. The reaction results are correlated with their physico-chemical properties.