Hydrodesulfurization of dibenzothiophene using Pd-promoted Co–Mo/Al2O3 and Ni–Mo/Al2O3 catalysts coupled with ionic liquids at ambient operating conditions

摘要: Sulfur compounds in fuel oils are a major source of atmospheric pollution. This study is focused on the hydrodesulfurization (HDS) dibenzothiophene (DBT) via coupled application 0.5 wt% Pd-loaded Co–Mo/Al2O3 and Ni–Mo/Al2O3 catalysts with ionic liquids (ILs) at ambient temperature (120 °C) pressure (1 MPa H2). The enhanced HDS activity solid [BMIM]BF4, [(CH3)4N]Cl, [EMIM]AlCl4, [(n-C8H17)(C4H9)3P]Br was credited to synergism between hydrogenation by former extractive desulfurization better H2 transport latter, which confirmed DFT simulation. ranked highest i.e. Pd–Ni–Mo/Al2O3 > Pd–Co–Mo/Al2O3 Co–Mo/Al2O3. With mild experimental conditions 1 120 °C an oil : IL ratio 10 : 3.3, DBT conversion from 21% (by blank Ni–Mo/Al2O3) 70% [(n-C8H17)(C4H9)3P]Br. interaction polarizable delocalized bonds (in DBT) van der Waals forces influenced higher solubility ILs hence led conversion. IL recycled four times minimal loss activity. Fresh spent were characterized FESEM, ICP-MS, EDX, XRD, XPS BET surface area techniques. GC-MS analysis revealed biphenyl as product. presents considerable advance classical processes terms operating conditions, cost-effectiveness, simplified mechanization, can be envisaged alternative approach for oil processing.