Conversion of syngas to olefins and green hydrocarbons through Fischer–Tropsch catalysis

Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS) from syngas (CO+H2) is considered as one of the non-oil-based alternatives for the sustainable production of clean transportation fuels and a wide range of products such as light olefins. FTS has received intensive interest, with special emphasis on the effects of metals, promoters, and supports in enhancing syngas conversion. This chapter highlights recent advances in the reaction mechanisms and catalysts relating to FTS. The application of in situ techniques, such as X-ray absorption spectroscopy during reduction and FTS reactions, provides deep insights into the atomic neighbor environment of elements, even in amorphous phases. Moreover, techno-economic assessment and global environmental impacts of FTS plants are considered based on the most recent literature. Finally, application of density functional theory computations is supposed to pave the way toward prediction of the exact reaction mechanism for the FTS catalysts.