Effects of Noble Metals on a Co2C-Based Supported Catalyst for Fischer–Tropsch to Olefins

The effects of noble-metal (Ru, Rh, Pt, and Pd) promoters on the catalytic performance of Co2C-based supported catalysts derived from NaCoMn/SiO2 for Fischer–Tropsch to olefins (FTO) were investigated. The catalysts promoted by noble metals exhibited higher activity without the loss of olefin selectivity. Co2C nanoprisms were found to be the active phase for the FTO reaction. TPR (temperature-programmed reduction) as well as the test of the carbonization rate showed that the addition of noble metals facilitated the reduction and carburization of cobalt, which further promoted the formation of Co2C nanoprisms. Further, the promoting of noble metals can enhance the CO adsorption and decrease the particle size of Co2C. Both the enhancement of CO adsorption and the decrease in particle size were considered to result in the boost in catalytic activity.