Manipulating metal-support interactions of metal catalysts for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis

For supported metal catalyst systems, the impact on catalysis originates from the interaction between metal nanoparticles and their support. Metal-support interactions (MSI) can change electronic properties, geometric morphologies, or chemical compositions of metal nanoparticles to make active sites have specific properties and catalytic activities. Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) is one of the most effective ways to convert cheap non-petroleum-based carbon sources into high value-added chemicals or ultra-clean liquid fuels. In this review, we summarize and classify the impact of MSI on the catalytic activity, selectivity and stability of FTS catalysts. The strategies to tune MSI are introduced in detail, and the recent development of high-efficiency FTS catalysts through the manipulation of SMI strategies has been highlighted. It is emphasized that the active metal sites, which are endowed with special functions by MSI, can change the strength of adsorption bond of adsorbates, consequently controlling the product distribution.