2235.     MELLER, A.  Catalytic Hydrogenation of CO-CH4 Synthesis From Water Gas.  Australian Chem. Inst. Jour. and Proc., vol. 10, 1943, pp. 100-114, 123-129; Chem. Abs., vol. 38, 1944, p. 238.

        Laboratory and pilot plant experiments on the enrichment of CO-H₂ mixtures (ratios 3:5 – 1:2) are described.  A catalyst containing 90% Ni and 10% Al₂O₃ gave high yields with 3:5 gas mixtures at 280° and a space velocity of 800-1,000 cm.³ of gas per gm. of reduced catalyst per hr.  Under these conditions the catalyst has a long life provided organic S compounds are absent.  Higher temperatures and higher space velocities favor a side reaction associated with C deposition and decline of catalyst activity.  Higher CO:H₂ ratios favor C deposition; lower ratios permit higher space velocities.  S compounds decrease the active catalyst surface and cause C deposition.  Lower CO:H₂ ratios enable the catalyst to resist higher concentrations of S.  A 95-98% yield was obtained at a space velocity of 800-1,000 during a continuous run of 1,500 hr., when the organic S content was not greater than 0.5 grain per 100 cu. ft.