Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis and Catalysts

  • Thread starter Astronuc
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Synthesis
In summary, the Fischer-Tropsch.org website provides a centralized location for important documents related to the Fischer-Tropsch process and its developments over the years. Companies like Syntroleum and Rentech are utilizing this technology to produce ultra-clean fuels and it's an area that is receiving increased attention.
  • #1
Astronuc
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
2023 Award
21,955
6,442
There is a large body of documents from the 1920’s through the present day which are important for researching and understanding the history and development of the Fischer-Tropsch and related processes. The purpose of this Fischer-Tropsch.org is to make these documents available in electronic media and in a centralized location

http://www.fischer-tropsch.org/

This process, and really a set of processes, have been receiving increased attention over the last decade.

Syntroleum - http://www.syntroleum.com/ - has developed Fischer-Tropsch (FT) technology that can convert stranded natural gas into ultra-clean fuels, such as diesel, naphtha and liquefied petroleum gases. The company also plans to convert coal into ultra-clean FT fuels.

Another company doing FTS - Rentech - http://www.rentechinc.com/

This will probably become a hot area, especially if there is a move to a so-called hydrogen economy.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Chemistry news on Phys.org
  • #2
Thanks for sharing this great resource! The Fischer-Tropsch process and its related processes have become increasingly important in the last decade. It's great to have a single source where we can access documents from the 1920's to present day. It'll be useful for understanding the history and development of this process.
It's interesting to see how companies such as Syntroleum and Rentech are utilizing this technology. With a possible move towards a hydrogen economy, it will be interesting to see how these technologies progress.
 
  • #3



Thank you for sharing this valuable resource on Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis and related processes. It is indeed important to have a centralized location for accessing historical documents and understanding the development of this technology. The website, fischer-tropsch.org, seems to be a comprehensive and informative platform for researchers and individuals interested in this field.

It is interesting to see that there has been increased attention towards Fischer-Tropsch technology in recent years, especially with the development of clean fuel alternatives. The fact that Syntroleum and Rentech are using this process to convert natural gas and coal into ultra-clean fuels is a positive step towards reducing our dependence on traditional fossil fuels.

As you mentioned, with the potential move towards a hydrogen economy, Fischer-Tropsch technology could become even more relevant and important. It is encouraging to see companies like Syntroleum and Rentech actively working towards commercializing this process and making it a viable option for the future.

Once again, thank you for sharing this information and highlighting the potential of Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis and its role in the clean fuel industry. I believe this is an area worth keeping an eye on, and I look forward to seeing further developments and advancements in this field.
 

Related to Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis and Catalysts

1. What is Fischer-Tropsch synthesis?

Fischer-Tropsch synthesis is a chemical reaction that converts carbon monoxide and hydrogen into liquid hydrocarbons. It was developed by Franz Fischer and Hans Tropsch in the 1920s as a way to produce synthetic fuels from coal. This process has since been adapted to use other carbon sources, such as natural gas and biomass.

2. How does Fischer-Tropsch synthesis work?

Fischer-Tropsch synthesis involves a series of catalytic reactions that convert carbon monoxide and hydrogen into larger hydrocarbon molecules. The first step is the formation of a carbide intermediate, followed by the addition of hydrogen to form hydrocarbons. This process continues until the desired hydrocarbon products are formed.

3. What are the main applications of Fischer-Tropsch synthesis?

Fischer-Tropsch synthesis is primarily used for the production of liquid fuels, such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. It is also used to produce specialty chemicals, waxes, and lubricants. In recent years, there has been growing interest in using Fischer-Tropsch synthesis for the production of renewable fuels from biomass.

4. What are the main types of catalysts used in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis?

The most commonly used catalysts in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis are iron, cobalt, and ruthenium. These metals are typically supported on a porous material, such as alumina, silica, or zeolite. Other types of catalysts, such as nickel and palladium, have also been studied for this process.

5. What are the challenges in developing efficient Fischer-Tropsch catalysts?

One of the main challenges in developing efficient Fischer-Tropsch catalysts is balancing selectivity and activity. Catalysts must be active enough to promote the desired reactions, but not so active that they produce unwanted byproducts. Another challenge is designing catalysts that are stable under the harsh conditions of Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, which typically involve high temperatures and pressures.

Similar threads

Fischer–Tropsch process and catalysts?
    • Chemistry
Replies
1
Views
2K
Investigation of hydrogen-on-demand systems (HODS)
    • General Discussion
Replies
4
Views
30K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top