In situ observation of phase changes of a silica-supported cobalt catalyst for the Fischer – Tropsch process by the development of a synchrotron-compatible in situ/operando powder X-ray diffraction cell
In situ characterization of catalysts gives direct insight into the working state of the material. Here, the design and performance characteristics of a universal in situ synchrotron-compatible X-ray diffraction cell capable of operation at high temperature and high pressure, 1373 K, and 35 bar, respectively, are reported. Its performance is demonstrated by characterizing a cobalt-based catalyst used in a prototypical high-pressure catalytic reaction, the Fischer – Tropsch synthesis, using X-ray diffraction. Cobalt nanoparticles supported on silica were studied in situ during Fischer – Tropsch catalysis using syngas, H2 and CO, at 723 K and 20 bar. Post reaction, the Co nanoparticles were carburized at elevated pressure, demonstrating an increased rate of carburization compared with atmospheric studies.
Source: Journal of Synchrotron Radiation - Category: Physics Authors: Hoffman, A.S. Singh, J.A. Bent, S.F. Bare, S.R. Tags: synchrotron X-ray diffraction Fischer – Tropsch catalysis research papers Source Type: research