Comparison of titania nanotube-supported cobalt catalysts prepared by impregnation and homogeneous precipitation for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis

Abstract

The properties and catalytic performance of Co/TiO₂ nanotubes prepared by impregnation (Imp) and homogeneous precipitation (HP) for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis were investigated. HP makes cobalt particles enrich the exterior surface of the support, while for the Imp catalyst, cobalt particles are distributed on both external and internal surfaces of the support. The HP catalyst displays a twofold higher activity as well as superior C₅₊ selectivity. The low activity of the Imp catalyst can be attributed to the strong Co–TiO₂ interaction and less available active cobalt sites.