Supported and polyfunctional hybrid cobalt catalysts for selective Fischer – Tropsch synthesis (A review)

The review considers modern approaches to the development of a technology for producing cobalt catalysts that are applied in the majority of known processes aimed to synthesize hydrocarbons from СО and Н2 by the Fischer – Tropsch method. The development of efficient catalysts makes it possible to replace the fuel produced from fossil oil by an alternative ultrapure fuel, thus reducing the detrimental effect on the environment. The results of R&D studies, particularly those obtained recently by the authors, were analyzed to reveal topical trends in the development of high-performance catalysts for the synthesis of hydrocarbons by the Fischer – Tropsch method within the classical and integrated GTL technology, including the creation of polyfunctional systems of new types. The review provides information mainly on the catalytic characteristics of the supported cobalt catalysts synthesized by impregnation and the related polyfunctional hybrid catalysts for the selective synthesis of fuel fraction hydrocarbons. The control of selectivity and productivity as well as changes in activity and physicochemical properties of the catalysts during a long-term operation are considered.