Preparation of a cobalt-nickel catalyst using an inorganic precursor for the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis

Abstract

Catalyst structural features are known to strongly affect the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS). In this study, in order to improve catalytic activity, novel Co-Ni catalysts are synthesized via a new synthetic route. In doing so, the Co-Ni/SiO2 or Al2O3 catalysts prepared by thermal decomposition of inorganic precursors (synthesized catalyst) are compared to those prepared using impregnation (reference catalyst). Catalytic performances are evaluated in the fixed bed micro reactor. Superior activity by the synthesized catalysts was observed in the FTS which can be attributed to structural properties such as small particle size, high surface area and homogenous dispersion of the active phase.