Hydrogenation of Carbon Monoxide over the Supported Rhodium Catalysts

Abstract

Hydrogenation of carbon monoxide over the supported rhodium catalyst to produce hydrocarbons (C₁ to C₄) and a trace amount of oxygenated compounds was studied. The product distribution was sensitive to the ratio of CO/H₂, the reaction temperature and the support. Compared with the iron, nickel and ruthenium catalysts, the rhodium catalyst has more selective for the formations of ethylene and propylene. From the measurements of the infrared spectrum and chemisorption amount of carbon monoxide on the supported rhodium catalyst, it was found that the chain growth of the hydrocarbons is dependent on the surface coverage of carbon monoxide, i. e. the strength of the surface bond between rhodium and carbon.