Fischer—tropsch studies on a plasma‐sprayed iron catalyst in a tube‐wall reactor

Abstract

AbstractConversion of synthesis gas to gaseous and liquid fuels via Fischer–Tropsch (FT) synthesis is becoming increasingly important for future energy needs. Tube‐wall reactors (TWR) are gaining importance for FT synthesis because of simple construction and improved temperature control. In the literature, studies have been reported on the FT synthesis in a TWR using a flame‐sprayed iron catalyst. In the present work, we have examined the effect of temperature (250–275°C), pressure (3.45 × 105 – 6.89 × 105 Pa), exposure velocity (0.61 – 2.44 m3/h of gas at STP/m2 of catalyst superficial area) and feed composition (H2/CO ratio of 2 and 3) on the product yield and selectivity using a plasma‐sprayed iron catalyst in the TWR. The plasma‐sprayed iron catalyst gave slightly lower conversions but showed much higher C5 + product selectivity as compared to the flame‐sprayed catalyst. The product distribution shifted towards higher hydrocarbons at lower temperatures, higher pressures and lower exposure velocities. The product distribution followed Shultz‐Flory relationship and the chain growth probability factor α decreased slightly with increase in temperature. The catalyst also showed good regeneration characteristics.