A Simple Strategy Stabilizing for a CuFe/SiO2 Catalyst and Boosting Higher Alcohols’ Synthesis from Syngas

Stable F-T-based catalyst development in direct CO hydrogenation to higher alcohols is still a challenge at present. In this study, CuFe/SiO2 catalysts with SiO2 support treated piranha solution were prepared and evaluated long-term reaction. The showed total alcohols’ selectivity great stability during reaction of more than 90 h. It was found that the treatment enriched surface hydroxyl groups on SiO2, so Cu–Fe active components could be firmly anchored highly dispersed support, resulting stable catalytic performance. Furthermore, situ DRIFTS revealed adsorption strength Cu+ weakened, which made C-O bond less likely cleaved thus significantly inhibited formation hydrocarbon products. Meanwhile, non-dissociated species obviously Cu0 surface, promoting alcohol products, increased. This strategy will shed light design supported stabilized structures for wide range reactions.