Fuels Synthesis Catalysis Laboratory
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Description
This laboratory has capabilities for evaluating catalysts for upgrading bio-derived intermediates (syngas, etc.) at the gram-scale in fixed-bed reactors. Eight reactor bays accommodate custom-built systems that can be integrated into existing infrastructure to facilitate activity and life testing of catalysts on a variety of gaseous and liquid feedstocks. The lab is automated to enable catalyst testing over a long period of time (thousands of hours) and features extensive on-line analytical.
Capability Bounds
Reactors can be used only for small quantities of catalyst (1-100 g) in a fixed-bed and for reaction systems that do not involve use or evolution of sulfur; pressures up to 100 bar are allowed. Liquid feeds must be able to be vaporized.
Unique Aspects
Eight reactor bays are available for automated for 24/7 unattended operation and feature extensive on-line analytical capabilities.
Availability
The systems are available for contract work. Interested parties should contact one of the persons listed as Capability Experts (above).
Benefit
Catalyst activity and life testing is critical for process design and scale-up.
Capability Expert(s)
Dan Ruddy, Fred Baddour, Joshua Schaidle
