Catalysts and process development for synthesis gas conversion to isobutylene. Quarterly report, July 1, 1991--September 30, 1991

The objectives of this project are to develop a new catalyst, the kinetics for this catalyst, simulate the performance of fixed bed trickle flow reactors, slurry flow reactors, and fixed bed gas phase reactors for conversion of a hydrogen-lean synthesis gas to isobutylene. The goals for this year were to recruit and organize the project team, complete the literature and patent searches, complete the management plan and other reporting requirements, complete the revision and upgrading of existing bench scale units for the project, and synthesize, characterize and evaluate the catalytic activity of zirconia prepared (1) by co-precipitation of zirconyl nitrate with ammonium hydroxide and (2) by preparing a hydrous zirconium oxide using the modified sol gel method developed at the Sandia National Laboratories followed by calcination. The same preparation procedure would be used to prepare supports for impregnation with thorium nitrate, a potassium salt and a sodium salt. The synthesis of new crystalline zirconates were to be attempted with the objective of producing new compositions of matter which might have higher activities and selectivities than zirconia. Substantial progress on reactor and kinetic models for slurry and trickle bed reactors was to be achieved. Accomplishments for the year are described