Abstract: A porous shaped catalyst support body comprising at least 85% by weight of alpha-alumina, wherein the support has a total pore volume in the range from 0.5 to 2.0 mL/g as determined by mercury porosimetry, and a pore structure characterized by a geometric tortuosity ? in the range from 1.0 to 2.0; and an effective diffusion parameter ? in the range from 0.060 to 1.0; wherein geometric tortuosity ? and effective diffusion parameter ? are determined by image analysis algorithms from computer-assisted 3D reconstructions of focused ion beam scanning electron microscope analyses. The structure of the support has a high total pore volume, such that impregnation with a large amount of silver is possible, while the surface area is kept sufficiently high in order to assure optimal dispersion of the catalytically active species, especially metal species. The support has a pore structure that leads to a maximum rate of mass transfer within the support.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sulphided multi-metallic catalyst, a process for obtaining it by preparing a metal mixture and subsequent sulphidation thereof and its use in a process for producing higher alcohols (C2+), mainly ethanol, through the catalytic conversion of synthesis gas.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sulphided multi-metallic catalyst, the process for obtaining it by sulphidation of a multi-metallic solid and use thereof in a process for producing higher alcohols (C2+), mainly ethanol, through the catalytic conversion of synthesis gas.