3432c.    ---------------.  [TRAMM, H.]  [Technique of Carbon Monoxide Hydrogenation.]  Brennstoff-Chem., vol. 5, 1952, pp. 10-17; Chem. Abs., vol. 46, 1952, p. 3,731.

         Various types of converters used for hydrocarbon synthesis are illustrated and described.  A graphic comparison shows the great improvement due to the modern high-capacity Fe catalyst as compared with the older Co catalyst.  A graphic comparison of the total cost of gas manufacture by the blue-gas process with and without O₂ and with the producer-gas process, indicates that the water gas without the use of O₂ is the cheapest.  For maximum gas utilization (96-97% conversion with low CH₄ formation) multiple-step conversion is required.  Physicochemical investigations show that the gas for synthesis purposes should have a low CO₂ and H₂O content, but that N₂ is not as objectionable.  CO₂ is chemisorbed on the catalyst but N₂ is only physically absorbed and is readily replaced.  The undesirable effect of H₂O and CO₂ is shown graphically.  A wide variety of products can be made by this process, ranging from gasoline to heavy wax, and including alcohols and their derivatives, solvents, and wetting agents.  This wide range of products makes the process economically attractive in many countries.

         ---------.  See abs. 2591.

         TRAPNELL, B. M. W.  See abs. 2820.