We have synthesized nanometer sized particles of Fe, Pd, and FeS2 (pyr
ite) in inverse micelle solutions and tested the particles as catalyst
s in coal conversion processes. The synthesis procedure produces a var
iety of high surface area, highly dispersed, unsupported metal and met
al compound catalysts. While Pd is used to test the viability of the p
articles formed by this synthesis technique, only disposable iron-base
d particles are of economic interest. The particles are prepared by re
duction or chemical reaction of salts solubilized in microheterogeneou
s surfactant and oil solutions. Chemical manipulation produces metal p
owders. Particle size and composition are determined by transmission e
lectron microscopy, electron diffraction, and UV-visible spectrophotom
etry. Catalysts in solution and as powders are explored in three react
ions: the hydrogenolysis of naphthylbibenzylmethane, coal hydropyrolys
is, and coal liquefaction. The model hydrogenolysis reaction provides
information on the role of surfactant on catalytic activity. Results i
ndicate good catalytic activity for coal hydropyrolysis and liquefacti
on.