2235. ------. [METALLGESELLSCHAFT A. G.] [Catalytic Hydrogenation of Carbon Monoxide.] German Patent 759,843, Nov. 8, 1938 (Cl. IV d-12 o). FIAT Reel R-8, frames 7,422-7,438: PB 73,522.

Process for the catalytic conversion of CO and H₂ in the proportion of 1:2-2:1 into hydrocarbons at normal or increased pressure and temperatures at 150°-300° characterized by the feature that to 1 catalyst vessel, furnished with catalysts that consume CO and H₂ in the ratio of 1:2, another catalyst vessel is joined, which is also provided with catalysts that consume more than 1 vol. of CO to 2 vol. of H₂. The result is that a considerably greater gas conversion is attained than would be possible with the same amount of raw gas but with only a single catalyst unit. One vessel contains an Fe catalyst, the other a Co catalyst, and the temperature, pressure and gas-throughput conditions in both vessels are maintained independently of each other corresponding to the conditions desired in the current stage of operation. The gas conversion in the 1^st vessel is extended somewhat farther than is required for the last vessel and the regulation of the most favorable end-gas composition is undertaken beyond the 1^st vessel by means of the raw gas withdrawn before the 1^st stage. All or a part of the reaction products inclusive of CO₂ are removed between the catalyst vessels. The olefin hydrocarbons, C₂-C₄ and above, are left in the reaction end-gas of the 1^st vessel for the purpose of further conversion in the 2d vessel to higher liquid or solid hydrocarbons.