Direct Conversion of Syngas to Chemicals Using Heterogeneous Catalysts

Synthesis gas, a mixture of CO and H 2 , is one of the most useful intermediate, which can be converted into several important and higher-value chemicals such as fuel range hydrocarbons, alcohols, and olefins. The fact that syngas can be obtained from almost any carbon sources, including both renewable and nonrenewable sources (coal, methane, naphtha, shale oil, agricultural wastes, biomass, etc.), makes this gas mixture extremely useful to ensure the future energy sustainability. There has been a significant research interest in converting syngas to higher-value chemicals, and several heterogeneous catalysts have been used for different applications in this area. This article summarizes the research and evolution of catalysts to directly convert syngas to liquid fuels and higher-value chemicals.