Determination of the Product Selectivity Model from the Fischer Tropsch Synthesis in a Fixed Bed Reactor

Abstract

The Fischer-Tropsch synthesis is a catalytic process that can produce a fuel similar to fossil fuels by using primary sources such as agricultural waste and carbon sources that can convert into synthesis gas by superheated steam. All fuel derivatives can be supplied through the Fischer-Tropsch reaction. The synthesis produces a variety of hydrocarbons via parallel and sequential reactions. However, achieving a particular product requires different operating conditions. It’s necessary to notice that, the terms of time and cost will increase by any change in operating conditions even on the laboratory scale, so it will not be cost-effective. For this purpose, in this study, adopting the method of modeling was investigated for the manufacturing of products of the Fischer-Tropsch process on Cobalt-based catalyst under the following operating conditions: TOS=20-150 h, T=190-225°C, P=2-6 MPa and H2/CO ratio of 1-5. Then, the models of selectivity and the optimal conditions for the reaction products were determined.