Recent advances in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis using cobalt-based catalysts: a review on supports, promoters, and reactors

Fischer–Tropsch (FT) process is a promising method for producing liquid fuels and other valuable chemicals through CO hydrogenation. The catalyst activity and product selectivity can be strongly affected by different parameters such as support and promoters. The physicochemical and textural properties of the support affect the metal–support interaction, crystallite size, metal dispersion, mass transfer of reactants/products, mechanical strength, and thermal stability of the catalyst. Promoters can also be used as structural, textural, electronic modifier, stabilizers, and catalyst-poison-resistant, which can improve the catalytic performance. According to the parameters mentioned above, this paper reviews the brief history of the FT process, the effect of different supports and promoters on the catalytic performance of cobalt-based catalysts. In addition to the catalyst properties, the reactor must also be designed appropriately to handle the heat of this highly exothermic reaction. The reactor types have also been reviewed and compared as a crucial part of the catalytic reactions.