Process for the production of C1 to C4 oxygenated hydrocarbons by the catalytic conversion of synthesis gas

摘要

C1 to C4 oxygenated hydrocarbons are produced by contacting synthesis gas at a temperature in the range 150 DEG C. to 450 DEG C. and a pressure in the range of 1 to 700 bars with a catalyst comprising a supported mixture of a rhodium component and a silver component. The preferred support is silica. Other metal components which may be incorporated on the support are iron, manganese, molybdenum, tungsten, ruthenium, chromium, thorium and zirconium. Furthermore the support can be activated prior to incorporation of the metal components.