Optimization of reaction condition on the product selectivity of Fischer–Tropsch synthesis over a Co–SiO2/SiC catalyst using a fixed bed reactor

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe Fischer–Tropsch (FT) synthesis is an important method for producing valuable key raw materials such as heavy and light hydrocarbons in various industries. The effects of process conditions (temperature of 503–543 K, pressure of 10–25 bar, and gas hourly space velocity (GHSV) of 1,800–3,600 Nml g cat−1 h−1) on the FT product distribution using Co–SiO2/SiC catalyst in a fixed bed reactor were studied by the design of experimental procedure and the Taguchi method. The optimization of the reaction conditions for the production selectivity of C2–C4 and heavy hydrocarbon (C5+) that has not been completely indicated elsewhere was investigated. The effect of operating conditions on the average carbon number distribution, dispersion, and skewness was also studied. Data analysis indicated the highest selectivity for the light hydrocarbons at a pressure of 20 atm, GHSV of 2,400 Nml g cat−1 h−1, and temperature of 543 K resulting in a highest selectivity for heavier hydrocarbons (C5+) and the minimum amount of methane in the reaction products that is optimal at the pressure of 10 atm, GHSV of 1,800 Nml g cat−1 h−1, and a temperature of 503 K. Furthermore, based on the surface plot, temperature has more significant effects than the other parameters. In addition, the obtained results indicated that the maximum average number of carbon was obtained in a pressure of 10 atm and a temperature of 503 K.