Long-term performance of Co catalyst and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis setup under realistic conditions

Abstract

Abstract Background Despite the sufficient description of the various catalytic processes, the data sets often lack a long-term oriented approach, thus examining unstable and temporary processes. Results In this study, an Al2O3-supported Co catalyst was applied in a small-scale Fischer-Tropsch synthesis under realistic conditions. A long-term performance was examined and evaluated. A tedious stabilisation regime was observed, taking around 78 hours of time-on-stream before the process was stabilised on a greater magnitude. The quantitative analysis showed significant differences in liquid production, where unstable process provided more excellent gas-to-liquid conversion, however, the selectivity of water was significant. The stabilised regime, on the other hand, performed well in terms of hydrocarbon production with 35%wt. share in the product. Conclusions This study points out the importance of proper stabilisation in the catalytic processes, which may require reasonable time in pilot and industrial-scale appliances.