| abstract |
Disclosed are processes for producing lower olefins by conversion of a feed stream comprising carbon monoxide and hydrogen, such as the Fischer-Tropsch process, and catalysts used in the process. By the present invention, lower olefins can be produced from syngas with high selectivity and low production of methane. Catalysts used herein include an α-alumina support and a catalytically active component comprising iron-containing particles dispersed on the support at least 1% by weight. Most of the iron-containing particles are in direct contact with α-alumina and are well distributed thereon. Preferably, the iron containing particles have an average particle size of less than 30 nm, and most preferably less than 10 nm. Supported catalysts not only show high selectivity but also have high catalytic activity and chemical and mechanical stability. |