Chain Propagation Mechanism of Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis: Experimental Evidence by Aldehyde, Alcohol and Alkene Addition

Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS) produces hundreds of hydrocarbons and oxygenates by simple reactants (CO + H2) the detailed chain propagation mechanism is still in dispute. An industrial iron-based catalyst was used to further clarify adding aldehyde, alcohol alkene species into a fixed-bed tubular reactor. The added were investigated H2 syngas atmospheres, respectively. 1-alkene atmosphere presented an obvious hydrogenolysis, which produced C1 participated C–C bond formation simultaneously. Co-feeding Cn with showed remarkable Cn+1 selectivity compared normal FTS reaction. In addition, carbonyl group aldehyde extremely unstable over could easily be hydrogenated hydroxyl group, even undergo dehydration for hydrocarbon formation. Experimental data confirmed that both heavier alkenes alcohols can converted growth intermediates then monomer insertion propagation. These results provide strong evidence reaction simultaneously controlled surface carbide CO mechanism, CHx as monomers, study guiding significance understanding kinetic modeling.