Synthesis and evaluation of pelletized Co/Al2O3 catalyst for synthetic crude oil production via Fischer-Tropsch process

The global energy crisis, exacerbated by the depletion of fossil resources and the impacts of climate change, underscores the urgent need for a transition to renewable energy systems. The Fischer-Tropsch process presents a viable solution for producing synthetic fuels by converting syngas (H₂ and CO) into longer-chain hydrocarbons, suitable for various fuels and chemical products. This study focuses on the synthesis of an efficient and cost-effective catalyst, evaluating its performance in a Fischer-Tropsch reaction within a continuous-flow reactor aiming a process integration within hydrogen-rich gas production. In this study, a 20% Co/Al2O3 catalyst was synthesized via the impregnation method and evaluated in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis to produce synthetic crude oil. Characterization confirmed successful impregnation of the active phase, with minimal alteration to the material's morphology following thermal treatment. The reaction tests demonstrated an average CO conversion rate exceeding 80%. The liquid fraction analysis revealed a significant presence of aliphatic hydrocarbons, primarily in the C16 to C26 range.