SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF COAL-LIQUEFACTION CATALYSTS IN INVERSE MICELLES

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.