Rh-catalysed Fischer–Tropsch synthesis at high pressures exhibits reversible electrochemical promotion by potassium. At 473 K and 14 bar, 43 products were detected, comprising alkanes, alkenes and primary alcohols. Potassium increased selectivity towards alkenes and primary alcohols as a result of actual increases in the rates of formation of these products – an apparently unprecedented observation. Alkane formation was progressively suppressed by added alkali. These findings are discussed in terms of K-induced acceleration and retardation of possible rate limiting steps for alkene and alkane formation, respectively. Plausible mechanisms are discussed.
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Urquhart, A., Williams, F. & Lambert, R. Electrochemical Promotion by Potassium of Rh-Catalysed Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis at High Pressure. Catal Lett 103, 137–141 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10562-005-6519-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10562-005-6519-1