Recent advances in understanding the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) reaction

Because of the world energy crisis, there has been renewed interest in the Synthesis (Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS)) reaction over the last few years. In spite of the fact that it has been studied for over 80 years an adequate description of its kinetics still seems to escape us. There are still significant experimental results that do not appear to fit in with any current theories. In this review we will look at some new results covering a wide range of areas but will focus on some that may help to throw light on the phenomena occurring during reaction. This will include the overall reaction and some selectivity issues particularly the olefin to paraffin ratios of the lower hydrocarbons.