Microwave Assisted Fischer - Tropsch Synthesis at a Atmospheric Pressure

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to test the efficiency of the microwave activation of a Fischer-Tropsch used catalyst under atmospheric pressure. Experiments were carried out on a cobalt, manganese, calcium catalyst on a 10:1:1 molar ratio that was impregnated on a AlSBA-15 support. The amount of metal impregnated was equivalent to 20% of the supports mass. Experiments were carried out both with conventional as well as microwave heating. In order to compare the efficiency of both types of heating, the product compositions were determined at 110, 140, 170, 190, 200, 225, 250 oC. At each temperature 4:1, 2:1, 1.25:1 H2:CO molar ratios were tested. The microwave assisted Fischer-Tropsch reaction allows the use of lower temperatures, as well as larger CO conversion values with better yields especially in methane.