The conversion of carbon dioxide and hydrogen into methanol and higher alcohols

This paper describes experimental results obtained in a fixed bed reactor using a CoMoS based catalyst. The aim of this work was to produce alcohols from CO2 and H2. Conclusions from this work include: · CO2 and H2 can be used as a feed for the CoMoS catalyst to produce alcohols. · Overall, a H2/CO2 ratio of 3 (or higher) seems favorable for reaching significant conversion levels of H2 and CO2. · A relatively small temperature increase does not significantly affect the conversion, probably due to a thermodynamic equilibrium constraint. · Low temperature is better for a good alcohol / alkane ratio. Mainly methanol and ethanol are produced and relatively little propanol. Although the concept was proven, a process where CO2 and H2 are converted into alcohols/olefins is economically viable only if hydrogen can be obtained in a cost effective manner.