Activated EU-2 Zeolite Hierarchical Pores Hydroisomerization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing zeolite technologies for hydroisomerization reactions, particularly for converting n-paraffin into iso-paraffin, face challenges in achieving optimal pore size distribution and maintaining crystal structure, which affects the efficiency and selectivity of the reaction.
Innovation Solution
Development of an activated EU-2 zeolite with specific pore sizes (30-40Å and 40-200Å) and a method involving hydrothermal synthesis and alkali treatment to enhance pore volume and surface area, while maintaining the crystal structure, used in conjunction with a bifunctional catalyst for improved hydroisomerization performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional EU-2 zeolite with pores of 30 to 40Å is used for hydroisomerization, then the crystal structure is stable, but the hydroisomerization activity is insufficient due to limited pore volume and diffusion restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies porous materials by creating a hierarchical pore structure within the EU-2 zeolite that combines micropores (30-40Å) with mesopores (40-200Å). This hierarchical porosity enhances the hydroisomerization activity by providing both the structural stability of the original zeolite framework and improved mass transport pathways through the introduced mesopores, allowing better diffusion of hydrocarbon molecules while maintaining the crystal structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces another dimension to the pore structure by transitioning from a single-scale micropore system to a multi-scale hierarchical pore system. By adding mesopores (40-200Å) to the existing micropores (30-40Å), the invention creates a bimodal pore distribution that operates at different length scales, thereby enhancing reactant access and product diffusion without compromising the underlying crystal structure.
2Productivity
If the pore size is increased to improve diffusion, then the hydroisomerization efficiency improves, but the selectivity and shape selectivity of the zeolite may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different pore size regions within the same zeolite structure. The micropores (30-40Å) maintain the original shape selectivity and molecular sieving capabilities, while the mesopores (40-200Å) provide enhanced diffusion pathways. This spatial differentiation of pore functions allows the material to simultaneously exhibit both high selectivity (through micropores) and high efficiency (through mesopores).
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The activated EU-2 zeolite significantly enhances the hydroisomerization activity and yield of iso-paraffin products by allowing better diffusion and reactivity of hydrocarbon molecules, improving the reaction efficiency and reducing the required reaction temperature.
Implementation Method 1
a method involving hydrothermal synthesis and alkali treatment to enhance pore volume and surface area
Implementation Method 2
a method involving hydrothermal synthesis and alkali treatment to enhance pore volume and surface area, while maintaining the crystal structure
Implementation Method 3
by allowing better diffusion and reactivity of hydrocarbon molecules
Implementation Method 4
a bi-functional catalyst is composed of a metal composition having functions for hydrogenation/dehydrogenation and a support having acid sites for skeletal isomerization
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein is an activated EU-2 zeolite, including: pores having a diameter of 30 to 40Å while maintaining the crystal structure of the EU-2 zeolite; and pores having a diameter of 40 to 200Å, wherein the volume of the pores having a diameter of 30 to 40Å is 0.01 to 0.06 cc/g, and the volume of the pores having a diameter of 40 to 200Å is 0.07 to 0.4 cc/g. The activated EU-2 zeolite may be obtained by a method involving contact with an aqueous alkaline solution. Also disclosed is a hydroisomerization catalyst comprising the activated EU-2 zeolite and at least one metal selected from group VI metals and group VIII metals, as well as a hydroisomerization method.