Fischer–Tropsch synthesis over the Co–Ni/Al₂O₃ nanocatalyst: influence of process variables, modeling and optimization using response surface methodology

Abstract

In the present work Al2O3 supported Co‐Ni nanocatalysts were evaluated for production of light olefins. Incipient wetness impregnation procedure was used for catalyst synthesis. The influence of process conditions (Pressure, Temperature and H2/CO inlet feed molar ratio) was investigated on the catalytic performance of Co‐Ni/γAl2O3 nanocatalyst toward lower olefins. Temperature, pressure, and feed ratio factors were changed in wide ranges of 250‐450 °C, 1‐12 bar, and 1‐4 respectively. The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) method was employed for modeling and optimization. The optimum process conditions were obtained using the RSM method (T=380 °C, P= 4 bar, and H2/CO=1.92). The highest selectivity of light olefinic products and conversion of carbon monoxide and the lowest selectivity toward methane were obtained concurrently under the optimized conditions. Catalysts were characterized for determining the physicochemical properties using various techniques of XRD, SEM, EDS, H2‐TPR, TPD, TEM, XPS, TGA, DSC, FT‐IR, and BET.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.