Proxy-based accelerated discovery of Fischer–Tropsch catalysts

Abstract

High-throughput XRD and TGA are used to screen hundreds of candidate Fischer–Tropsch synthesis catalyst samples per month for particle size, reducibility and stability under operating conditions. A series of highly stable catalysts based on Co-Ru-Mg-Al2O3 are identified.

The effect of Mg location on Co-Mg-Ru/γ-Al 2 O 3 Fischer–Tropsch catalysts

“…The particle sizes calculated from the broadening of the Co 3 O 4 peaks indicate that catalysts containing Mg had smaller Co 3 O 4 particles than the catalyst without Mg, which agrees with our previous work [13]. …”

“…In our previous work [13], we described the high-throughput discovery, scale-up and testing of a series of Co-Ru catalysts supported on Mg-modified γ-Al 2 O 3 . The Mg was found to have several benefits: reducing the Co particle size, improving the Co surface area and increasing the stability of the catalysts during FTS.…”

“…Lattice parameters were calculated assuming a cubic spinel structure for γ-Al 2 O 3 . Lattice parameters of unwashed samples are shown for comparison, ( c , d ) Co metal particle size calculated from high-throughput XRD [13] for catalysts synthesized using the supports from ( a , b ) calcined after Mg addition at either ( c ) 550°C or ( d ) 800°C. Data shown are the mean of two aliquots.…”

“…XRD data on samples from Boldrin et al [13] (supports and catalysts) and on the catalysts in the acid washing study described above were collected on a Panalytical X-Pert diffractometer fitted with a X-Celerator detector and a spinner stage set up in Bragg–Brentano geometry. X-rays were produced with a Co anode filtered by Ge giving monochromatic K α 1 radiation (1.7890 Å).…”

“…In addition to this, the acid-washed (AW) supports were characterized using the high-throughput XRD technique described by Boldrin et al [13]. Samples were placed in well-plates, adhesive tape was stuck over the tops of all wells and the plates were upturned to stick the sample to the tape to ensure that the sample height was the same across all wells.…”