Oxidative desulfurization of light gas oil using zinc catalysts prepared via different techniques

Abstract

Zn-incorporated hydroxyapatite catalysts were prepared by two different techniques: wet impregnation and ion exchange with different zinc loadings. The prepared catalysts were characterized by different techniques. The catalytic activity of zinc catalysts was investigated towards oxidative desulfurization of light gas oil with a total sulfur content of 1281.8 ppm. The reaction was performed in a batch system and in the presence of hydrogen peroxide as oxidant. The influence of various operating parameters including reaction temperature, oxidation time and oxidant to sulfur molar ratio on the sulfur removal of light gas oil was investigated. The results revealed that an increase in the reaction temperature enhanced the sulfur removal. The maximum observed sulfur removal reached 89.7% using zinc catalysts prepared via the ion exchange technique. The formed active phase (parascholozite) and BET surface area could explain this activity.