Synthesis and Determination of Active Acidic/Basic Sites on Zn Loaded Zeolite (ZSM-5) Catalyst & Its Role in Catalytic Reforming of Naphtha Using HPMR Reactor

Abstract

The crystalline aluminosilicate ZSM-5 (Zeolite Socony Mobil) has a high Si to Al ratio. It is utilized as a catalytic support material. Zeolite has huge industrial applications. They are commonly employed as heterogeneous catalyst for hydrocarbon isomerization reactions in the petroleum sector. In general, zeolite is synthesized as a powder with low mechanical strength. Powdered ZSM-5 and binder (alumina) were combined, and glacial acetic acid (peptide agent) was added. Mix them thoroughly before loading them into the extruder to form the shape. After drying for one day to let the acetic acid drain, they were heated for eight hours and calcined to remove the liquid from the pores, which aids in the formation of pores/active sites. By mixing the ZnNO 3 solution with the sample, the wet impregnation process is utilized to load Zn metal on extruded ZSM-5. Zn is chosen for loading because it favours cyclization and forming aromatic compounds. After many hours of such wet contact, the suspension evaporates, and the chemical is deposited randomly inside and outside the zeolite pores. Further heating and calcination are carried out. TPD (temperature-programmed desorption) of H/ZSM-5 is performed under catalyst characteristics. TPD of H/ZSM-5 reveals that it comprises primarily highly acidic sites with temperatures above 500°C. The prepared catalyst is employed in the naphtha reforming process in the HPMR (High-Pressure Micro Reactor) to produce BTX as the product.