Cu-Zr-Zn catalysts for methanol synthesis in a fluidized bed reactor Original Research Article

Ten Cu-Zr-Zn catalysts prepared by reverse coprecipitation were evaluated for use for methanol synthesis at 230–270 °C and 4 MPa. The catalysts were characterized by N2O-chemisorption, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and their attrition resistance and particle size distribution. The data showed that many of the catalysts had suitable activity, shape, size and mechanic strength. Catalyst stability during reaction at 260 °C for 120 h was also studied. The catalyst with the composition of Cu:Zr:Zn = 4.5:3:1.5 was optimal for methanol synthesis in a fluidized bed reactor.