The conversion of carbon dioxide and hydrogen into methanol and higher alcohols

This paper describes experimental results obtained in a fixed bed reactor using a CoMoS based catalyst. The aim of this work was to produce alcohols from CO(2) and H(2). Conclusions from this work include: CO(2) and H(2) can be used as a feed for the CoMoS catalyst to produce alcohols. Overall, a H(2)/CO(2) ratio of 3 (or higher) seems favorable for reaching significant conversion levels of H(2) and CO(2). A relatively small temperature increase does not significantly affect the conversion, probably due to a thermodynamic equilibrium constraint. Low temperature is better for a good alcohol / alkane ratio. Mainly methanol and ethanol are produced and relatively little propanol. Although the concept was proven, a process where CO(2) and H(2) are converted into alcohols/olefins is economically viable only if hydrogen can be obtained in a cost effective manner. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.