Iron-based Fischer–Tropsch catalysts, which are applied in the conversion of CO and H2 into longer hydrocarbon chains, are historically amongst the most intensively studied systems in heterogeneous catalysis. Despite this, fundamental understanding of the complex and dynamic chemistry of the iron–carbon–oxygen system and its implications for the rapid deactivation of the iron-based catalysts is still a developing field. Fischer–Tropsch catalysis is characterized by its multidisciplinary nature and therefore deals with a wide variety of fundamental chemical and physical problems. This critical review will summarize the current state of knowledge of the underlying mechanisms for the activation and eventual deactivation of iron-based Fischer–Tropsch catalysts and suggest systematic approaches for relating chemical identity to performance in next generation iron-based catalyst systems (210 references).

The renaissance of iron-based Fischer-Tropsch synthesis: on the multifaceted catalyst deactivation behaviour.

Kinetics of the hydrogenation of CO over a single crystal nickel catalyst

Fischer-Tropsch synthesis over reduced and unreduced iron oxide catalysts

Preparation of atomically clean surfaces of selected elements: A review

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the mechanism of hydrocarbon synthesis over Fischer-Tropsch catalysts. The superiority of liquid over gaseous energy carriers, in particular for automotive purposes, resides in the high energy density of liquids and the relatively low weight of the required container. When compared to solid fuels such as coal, liquids have the advantage that pollutants can be removed more easily, and transport through pipelines or in tankers is cheap and efficient. The chemistry of the catalytic processes is, of course, independent of the way in which the synthesis gas was manufactured; besides coal gasification the steam re-forming of natural gas is a well-known route to produce synthesis gas, although with a higher H 2 /CO ratio. It is convenient to distinguish methanation, where methane is the predominant product, and the Fischer- Tropsck process directed toward the manufacture of predominantly liquid hydrocarbons. However, as the product composition for a given catalyst largely depends on the conditions, the term Fischer-Tropsck catalysis is used also for those cases in which, owing to the variation of one or more of these parameters, the product is mainly gaseous or solid at room temperature and atmospheric pressure.

Geoffrey Gafner

Papers

A model study of the hydrogenation of CO over polycrystalline iron

Microreactor and electron spectroscopy studies of Fischer-Tropsch synthesis on magnetite

A low-energy electron diffraction study of Fe(110): I. Experimental

A low-energy electron diffraction study of Fe(110). II. Theory and comparison with the experiment