Iso-Polyoxometalate [Mo₈O₂₆]^4– (Mo₈) Supported with Mesoporous Hexagonal Boron Nitride (h-BN): A Green and Efficient Composite Catalyst for Ultradeep Desulfurization of Model Fuel at Room Temperature

Abstract

The development of stable and efficient ODS catalysts for achieving room-temperature catalytic oxidation desulfurization is one of the challenges in the field of catalytic oxidation desulfurization. This work successfully synthesized and evaluated a new type of composite catalyst, Mo 8 /h-BN, using the wet impregnation method to investigate its desulfurization performance under various conditions. ODS tests were conducted on DBT, BT, and 4,6-DMDBT using Mo 8 /h-BN as the catalyst, H 2 O 2 as the oxidant, and [BMIM]PF 6 as the extractant. Characterization and testing revealed that Mo 8 /h-BN exhibited excellent ODS activity, converting DBT completely at 60 °C in 10 min. This study not only explored the optimal desulfurization conditions but also investigated the desulfurization performance of the catalyst at room temperature. Additionally, it is speculated that there may be an electron transfer between Mo 8 and h-BN, which enhances the stability of the catalyst. Finally, possible CODS mechanisms were inferred through GC-MS and free radical trapping experiments. In conclusion, the composite catalyst Mo 8 /h-BN provides a new pathway for developing low-energy consumption, sustainable, cost-effective, and efficient desulfurization catalysts.