The Fischer-Tropsch reaction in the aqueous phase over rhodium catalysts: a promising route to selective synthesis and separation of oxygenates and hydrocarbons.

Abstract

In the present communication, we uncovered the aqueous phase Fischer-Tropsch reaction over rhodium catalysts. The reaction results in the synthesis and consecutive separation of hydrocarbons and oxygenates into two phases. Use of a rhodium Schiff base complex as a precursor for catalyst preparation allows efficient control of the Rh metal nanoparticle size distribution and leads to higher alcohol selectivity.