Green Pathways to Low Sulfur Diesel: Advances and Challenges in Desulfurization Technologies

Abstract

Diesel desulfurization is crucial for producing ultra-low sulfur diesel to meet stringent environmental regulations and reduce harmful emissions. Traditional hydrodesulfurization processes, while widely used, face limitations in removing refractory sulfur compounds such as DBT and its derivatives, and require harsh reaction conditions, including high pressure and hydrogen consumption. Consequently, nonhydrodesulfurization technologies have emerged as promising alternatives, offering milder operating conditions and reduced environmental impact. This review systematically compares various desulfurization strategies, both hydrodesulfurization (HDS) and non-HDS methods, including bio-desulfurization, adsorptive desulfurization, oxidative desulfurization, extractive desulfurization, and coupled systems, with a focus on their reaction mechanisms, advantages, current research progress, and limitations. Finally, the challenges of these methods and achieving industrial viability are addressed, and future directions are proposed for the development of green, efficient, and sustainable desulfurization technologies. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the state-of-the-art desulfurization technologies and their potential for advancing cleaner fuel production in the context of global environmental goals.