Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis Over Cobalt Catalyst for Liquid Fuel Production from Biomass-Derived Syngas

Abstract

Fischer–Tropsch synthesis is a key thermochemical conversion process for producing liquid hydrocarbon fuels from synthesis gas derived from biomass resources. This study investigates the performance of a cobalt-based catalyst for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis using biomass-derived syngas with emphasis on hydrocarbon selectivity, catalyst activity, and process optimization. Experimental analyses were conducted in a fixed-bed reactor under varying operational conditions, including reaction temperature, pressure, gas hourly space velocity, hydrogen-to-carbon monoxide ratio, and catalyst loading, to evaluate their influence on fuel production efficiency and product distribution. The cobalt catalyst exhibited high catalytic activity and selectivity toward long-chain hydrocarbons suitable for liquid fuel applications due to its favorable surface properties and strong resistance to water–gas shift reactions. Results demonstrated that optimized operating conditions significantly enhanced carbon monoxide conversion and improved selectivity toward diesel-range hydrocarbons while minimizing methane formation and undesirable by-products. Kinetic evaluation revealed that syngas composition and catalyst surface interactions strongly influence chain growth probability and hydrocarbon formation mechanisms during synthesis. Catalyst characterization studies confirmed stable structural properties and sustained catalytic performance over prolonged reaction periods. Furthermore, the integration of biomass-derived syngas with Fischer–Tropsch technology offers a sustainable pathway for renewable fuel production and reduction of dependence on fossil resources. Compared with conventional petroleum-based fuel synthesis processes, the proposed approach provides improved environmental benefits through lower greenhouse gas emissions and utilization of renewable biomass feedstocks. The findings highlight the potential of cobalt-catalyzed Fischer–Tropsch synthesis as an effective technology for producing clean liquid fuels and supporting sustainable energy development in industrial fuel processing applications.