Work

From laboratory to demo: A novel activation technology for iron-based Fischer-Tropsch synthesis catalysts

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: • A new technology for activating FT catalysts using gas–solid fluidized bed. • The activated catalysts achieved long-term storage for the first time. • It was first discovered that high pressure is beneficial to reactions. Novel activation methods for iron-based Fischer-Tropsch (FT) synthesis catalysts using a gas–solid fluidized bed reactor (FBR) were studied to address the shortcomings of the existing activation technologies using slurry bubble column reactor (SBCR). A pilot unit and an industrial demonstration unit were constructed to investigate the influences of process parameters. The pilot test results indicated that increasing pressure and superficial gas velocity (SGV) were beneficial to improving the activation performance. The optimal range for the H 2 /CO molar ratio of the syngas at the inlet was found between 50 and 70. Compared to the short-lived catalysts activated using SBCR, the catalysts activated using the FBR can be stored under nitrogen protection for nearly 1000 h. The experimental results of the industrial demonstration unit indicate that, given the same output and performance of activated catalysts, FBR has the competitive advantages of higher temperature stability, smaller reactor size, and shorter reaction cycle in comparison with SBCR.

Source: Chemical Engineering Journal

DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2024.158815

Authors: Jianning Zhao, Ruili Tong, Yifeng Bu, Zhuowu Men, Xinbin Ma

Institutions: Tianjin University, National Institute of Clean and Low-Carbon Energy

Language: English

Topic: Catalysts for Methane Reforming

Subfield: Catalysis

Field: Chemical Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,490