Synthetic catalyst reduction
Thread Content
Why is it necessary to control the outlet carbon dioxide level during the reduction of methanol synthesis catalysts, and what impact does this level have on the reduction of the synthesis catalysts?
The CO2 content must be controlled, especially toward the end of the reduction process, when the catalyst has reached a high level of activity and CO2 can directly react with H2 to form methanol. Of course, since the reduction pressure is not high, the synthesis reaction is not very intense. Therefore, for various tower types, there is a control parameter for CO2. The source of CO2 is generally the decomposition of carbonates within the catalyst itself.
I agree with what was said above; it is mainly to prevent repeated oxidation and reduction reactions between the catalyst and CO2, as this would affect the efficiency of the catalyst.
What was said on the second floor makes sense: by the time of the reduction stage, some of the catalysts already possess high activity. Under the action of these catalysts, CO2 and H2 react to produce methanol and water, which is not conducive to the reduction of the catalysts; therefore, it is necessary to control the CO2 content in the reduction gas.
I used to think the same way too. But lately, I’ve felt that the CO2 content has little impact. So what if methanol is produced? There’s no need to worry if the catalyst’s activity can’t be destroyed; as for something like oxidation-reduction, is that possible? Has all the generated methanol been cooled down? Could the oxidizing power of CO2 re-oxidize copper? It’s impossible; I asked the technical staff from foreign manufacturers, those from Wanfeng. They have no requirements regarding CO2; it’s only because the decomposition of carbonates causes the system pressure to rise that it becomes necessary to vent some gas. However, the CO2 level in the system remained around 15% toward the end.