US Patent 7524786 Regeneration of synthesis gas catalysts

The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of synthesis gas (i.e., a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen), typically labeled syngas. More particularly, the present invention relates to a regeneration method for a syngas catalyst. Still more particularly, the present invention relates to the regeneration of syngas catalysts using a re-dispersion technique. One embodiment of the re-dispersion technique involves the treatment of a deactivated syngas catalyst with a re-dispersing gas, preferably a carbon monoxide-containing gas such as syngas. If necessary, the catalyst is then exposed to hydrogen for reduction and further re-dispersion.