The effect of microwave irradiation on heterogeneous catalysts for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis

Abstract The work that has been carried out on microwave irradiation applied in catalyst preparation for drying, calcination or postsynthesis methods, and as a heating source for the Fischer–Tropsch reaction has been reviewed. It has been found that microwave irradiation can, in some cases, greatly enhance the performance of heterogeneous catalyst systems for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis. We have also summarized the advantages and drawbacks of using microwave irradiation in Fischer–Tropsch catalyst preparation and postsynthesis, and identified opportunities for future investigation.