The Fischer–Tropsch reaction in the aqueous phase over rhodium catalysts: a promising route to selective synthesis and separation of oxygenates and hydrocarbons

Abstract

In the present communication, we uncovered the aqueous phase Fischer–Tropsch reaction over rhodium catalysts. The reaction results in the synthesis and consecutive separation of hydrocarbons and oxygenates into two phases. Use of a rhodium Schiff base complex as a precursor for catalyst preparation allows efficient control of the Rh metal nanoparticle size distribution and leads to higher alcohol selectivity.