1782. KLEMENC, A., AND RUPP, J. [Behavior of Iron Catalysts in the Temperature Range of 250°-450° Toward Illuminating Gas and Other Similar Gases.] Angew. Chem., vol. 47, 1934, pp. 182-184; Chem. Abs., vol. 28, 1934, p. 3221.

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Literature Abstracts

Behavior of commercial illuminating gas was investigated in the presence of the following Fe catalysts: (1) Fe precipitated from Fe(CO)₅, (2) Fe powder, (3) Fe powder activated by treatment with AlCl₃ and NH₄ OH or NaOH solutions and (4) synthetic catalysts, for example, Fe oxides from various sources. A reduction of the CO content and an increase of the CH₄ content take place. The most effective temperature range for the experimental conditions was found at 280°-450°. A greater retort length results in greater CO conversion, while increasing gas velocity results in smaller CO conversion. The catalyst surface undergoes a continual change, and the progress of the reaction dilutes the catalyst. As side reactions the decomposition of heavier hydrocarbons and reactions with H₂O vapor were encountered, but it was found that temperatures can be chosen low enough to avoid the decomposition of the heavier components; however, larger quantities of H₂O vapor act disturbingly upon CH₄ formation. Attempts to regenerate the catalysts by simple processes failed, and it was found that a mixture of 21-22% C and 32-34% Fe, with a ratio of Fe : O₂=3 : 4.1, becomes inactive. At a gas velocity of 500 l. per hr. (area=81.6 cm.²), a consumption of 10 gm. catalyst per m.³ of converted gas, and the catalyst was still in a decidedly active condition.