CO2 Conversion by Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis Using Na-Modified Fe Catalysts

Three Fe catalysts with different Na contents were prepared, characterized, and investigated for the CO2-based Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS). The FTS results clearly indicated that the selectivity towards long-chain hydrocarbons was driven by the surface Na content, which promotes the CO dissociation and chain propagation. Additionally, it was shown that Fe3O4, Fe5C2 and Fe7C3 coexist during FTS, revealing specific catalytic activity. As a result, a tandem mechanism was suggested for the CO2 conversion, consisting in a reverse water-gas shift on Fe3O4 followed by CO hydrogenation on the Fe carbides.

Automated summary

The study shows that the Na content has a significant impact on the selectivity and catalytic activity of the catalyst, and Fe3O4, Fe5C2, and Fe7C3 coexist during the FTS process.