Development and evaluation of novel catalysts capable of activating CO2 especially in CO2 hydrogenation have been investigated. Several catalysts have been prepared, and characterized by CO2 TPD. Their performance has been evaluated at 300 degrees C and 10 bar. All catalysts were active in CO2 hydrogenation reaction with conversions of approximately 15-30% at 24 h time on stream. Potassium was found to enhance chain growth and to decrease the formation of methane. Ru promoter did not provide any benefit in activity or selectivity. Zr-promoted catalyst materials exhibited enhanced CO2 adsorption and improved hydrocarbon yields. (c) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.