A model study on the carburization process of iron-based Fischer–Tropsch catalysts using in situ TEM–EELS

In order to elucidate the activation mechanism of iron based Fischer–Tropsch catalysts, we performed in situ nanoscale structural and compositional analysis during carburization in CO atmosphere. We found that inside an ETEM at 20 Torr CO, hematite reduces while severe sintering occurs. This sintering is enhanced by low pressure conditions in combination with CO gas. The reduction inside the ETEM is so effective that metallic iron can be formed. During the process, about 50 nm sized iron carbide crystallites grow out of the iron (oxide) particles.