2161. ------. [MATTOX, W. J.] (Standard Oil Development Co.). Preconditioning Hydrocarbon Synthesis Catalyst and Removing Fines Therefrom. United States Patent 2,601,121, June 17, 1952; appl. filed Apr. 29, 1948, Serial No. 24,067; 6 claims (Cl. 252-443).

Fe catalyst in powdered form is preconditioned to adapt it for fluidization in the synthesis of hydrocarbons. A fluidized bed of the catalyst is treated with a CO-H₂ mixture containing 1-5 mol. of H₂ per mol. of CO at 500°-900° F. A substantial proportion of the Fe is converted to its carbide. Fines formed in this treatment are eliminated.