Conversion of syngas to liquid hydrocarbons over a two-component (Cr2O3-ZnO and ZSM-5 zeolite) catalyst: Kinetic modelling and catalyst deactivation

The present study describes the kinetics of syngas transformation into liqu id hydrocarbons (boiling point in the gasoline range) using as catalyst a m ixture of a metallic component, Cr2O3-ZnO, and of an acidic component, ZSM- 5 zeolite. Experimental results were obtained in an isothermal fixed-bed in tegral reactor. The validity of several kinetic models, available for metha nol synthesis, is analysed and modifications are proposed. These changes in volve a rate equation with a CO2 concentration-dependent term. Catalyst dea ctivation is also evaluated and the effect of the operating conditions on c oke deposition is established. Moreover, the rate of CO conversion and the change of catalytic activity with time-on-stream were described using a kin etic model showing a weak influence of temperature. (C) 2000 Elsevier Scien ce Ltd. All rights reserved.