Keywords

Fischer-Tropsch (FT), Liquid Fuels, Cobalt FT Catalysts

Abstract

Fischer-Tropsch (FT) synthesis is a reaction used to convert carbon monoxide and hydrogen into high-quality liquid fuels. The FT process has been considered a promising alternative route for producing diesel fuel to meet an increasing demand for oil around the world and more strict limits to regulate auto tailpipe emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has demanded a reduction in diesel fuel sulfur content to 15 ppm. While crude oil contains finite amounts of sulfur that needs further removal or treatment before it could be used as a commercial fuel, FT synthesis produces sulfur-free diesel fuel. The reaction takes place in the presence of a cobalt or iron-based catalyst. A comprehensive literature review has been carried out along with numerous experiments to determine a better procedure for the production of cobalt FT catalysts. Many parameters including: drying time, mixing time, addition of organic precursor, aqueous or dry impregnation, were varied in the preparation of this regime of cobalt FT catalysts. Activity measurements were taken of all catalysts and the parameters with the greatest effect on catalyst activity were determined. These parameters were then optimized to produce the most active cobalt FT catalyst.