(671f) Alkali Metal Promoted Catalysts for the Conversion of Synthesis Gas to Mixed Alcohols

BKS Energy and the Idaho National Laboratory have developed a unique synthesis method to produce alkali metal promoted catalysts for the conversion of synthesis gas to mixed alcohols. Experimental results have shown that the catalysts can produce high reaction rates with significant conversion to higher alcohols including ethanol, propanols and butanols while keeping selectivity to hydrocarbons low. Production rates are on the order of 1,000 g product per kilogram catalyst per hour with selectivity to hydrocarbons of approximately 6 wt%. Selectivity to methanol is still relatively high (43 wt%); however, selectivity to higher alcohols are 50 wt%. Of the higher alcohols, butanols represent 54 wt%, propanols 28 wt%, and ethanol 18 wt%. This paper will present the effect of process conditions on catalyst activity and selectivity as well as the effect of CO2 concentrations in the feed on yield and selectivity.