Conversion of carbon monoxide-rich synthesis gas to hydrocarbons and alcohols over Cu/Co/ZnO/SiO2 catalysts

Catalysts of the type Cu/Co/ZnO/SiO2 were prepared by impregnation, subsequent calcination and reduction with hydrogen. Characterization of the catalysts was carried out by ICP-AES, BET measurements and powder X-ray diffraction analyses. Furthermore, temperature programmed reduction was employed to investigate their reduction behavior. The catalysts were tested in the conversion of synthesis gas to hydrocarbons and alcohols. High CO conversions could be reached in a single reactor pass. Selectivity was highest for methane, and short-chain hydrocarbons, but alcohols were also formed.