Characterization of cobalt dispersed on the mixed nanoscale alumina and zirconia supports

In the present study, the physicochemical properties of cobalt (Co) dispersed on mixed nano-Al2O3–ZrO2 supports were investigated. The samples were prepared by impregnation of the cobalt precursor onto the various mixed nano-Al2O3–ZrO2 supports. After calcination, the samples were characterized with different techniques. XRD revealed that the Co3O4 oxide species were detected on various supports without changes in morphologies. Based on CO hydrogenation study, the Co dispersed on the nano-Al2O3 was the most active among any other samples. However, the Co dispersed on the mixed nano-Al2O3–ZrO2 apparently resulted in longer chain hydrocarbons produced.