Combined steam reforming of methane and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis for the formation of hydrocarbons: A proof of concept study

The concept of combining the reactions of methane steam reforming and the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis is explored in an attempt to convert methane directly to hydrocarbons. Consideration of the thermodynamics and kinetics of the two processes confirms that the combined reaction could give small conversions. The controlled addition of small quantities of oxygen to the reactants could further enhance conversion without loss of selectivity. The catalyst design for the new combined process requires a catalyst capable of both methane steam reforming and Fischer–Tropsch synthesis that is tolerant to high concentrations of steam at elevated temperatures. Ru and Co catalysts were selected for study and the initial results at 573 K indicate that conversion of methane of ca. 4% to C2–C4 hydrocarbons can be achieved with unoptimized catalysts. It is concluded that catalysts with enhanced activity are required to achieve more realistic conversions, but the current data provide a proof of the concept of combining the reforming and Fischer–Tropsch reactions.