PATENTS

      1429.  ------.  [I. G. FARBENINDUSTRIE, A. G.]  [Process for Producing High-Molecular Hydrocarbons.]  German Patent Appl. I 66,644. OZ 12,053. filed Mar. 7. 1940 (Cl. 12 o)  FIAT Reel 163. frames 1,396-1,404: PB 25,607: Meyer Transl. PC-S-II.  Fischer-Tropsch. vol. 6. chap. 164. 1949. p. 3.

            In obtaining high-molecular hydrocarbons with at least 10 atoms in the molecule from the conversion of CO with H₂, mixtures of these gases are passed through the converter at an hourly speed of at least 1,000 times the unit volume of the catalyst space.  Before recirculation of the gases or before their further treatment the desired high-molecular fractions are separated.  This method of operation not only increased the formation of high-molecular hydrocarbons in the product but also the total yield, since CH₄ formation is reduced.  The usual catalysts used for CO conversion are suitable for this process.  If Co catalysts are used, the best temperature is 200º-225º, with Fe catalysts, 240º-420º.  Normal or medium pressures may be used., preferably 3-25 atm.  The synthesis gas should have a ratio of CO-H₂ of about 1-1.1 or 1.3.