CuZnAl Oxide Catalyst with H-Form Zeolite for Desulfurization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing catalytic compositions for oxidative desulfurization of sulfur-containing hydrocarbons are not effective when used alone, and there is a need for improved catalysts that combine with additives to enhance their performance.

Innovation Solution

A catalytic composition comprising a CuZnAl oxide catalyst combined with H-form zeolites, optionally substituted with transition metals, and incorporating promoters like molybdenum oxide and boron, which are used in the oxidative desulfurization of gaseous sulfur-containing hydrocarbons.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If prior art catalysts (CuZnAl oxide) are used alone for oxidative desulfurization, then the catalyst structure is simple, but the sulfur removal efficiency is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesulfur removal efficiencyVSAvoidcatalyst composition complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines CuZnAl oxide catalyst with H-form zeolite additive to form a composite catalytic system. The CuZnAl oxide component provides the primary catalytic activity for oxidative desulfurization, while the H-form zeolite additive enhances sulfur removal efficiency through its acidic properties and molecular sieve structure. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by achieving higher productivity through material composition complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges two distinct functional materials (CuZnAl oxide catalyst and H-form zeolite additive) into a single catalytic system. The CuZnAl oxide provides oxidation catalysis while the H-form zeolite contributes acid catalysis and selective adsorption, creating a synergistic effect that improves sulfur removal efficiency beyond what either component could achieve alone.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If H-form zeolites are combined with CuZnAl oxide catalysts, then sulfur removal efficiency is enhanced, but the catalyst preparation process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoxidative desulfurization performanceVSAvoidcatalyst preparation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs preliminary action by pre-synthesizing the CuZnAl oxide catalyst and H-form zeolite additive separately using established methods before combining them. This allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining the synergistic benefits of the composite system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 combination of CuZnAl oxide catalysts with H-form zeolites significantly enhances the oxidative desulfurization process, achieving higher sulfur removal and conversion of sulfur to SO2, particularly when used in diesel fuel and residual fuel oil, outperforming prior art catalysts.

Implementation Method 1

oxidative desulfurization of gaseous, sulfur containing hydrocarbons

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOxidation: Oxidation

Implementation Method 2

catalytic composition comprising an oxidative desulfurization catalyst combined with an H-form zeolite

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCatalysis: Catalysis

Data Source

PatentUS10589259B2Additives for gas phase oxidative desulfurization catalysts
Publication Date: 2020.03.17 SAUDI ARABIAN OIL CO
  • US10589259B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A composition useful in oxidative desulphurization of gaseous hydrocarbons is described. It comprises a CuZnAl—O mixed oxide, and an H form of a zeolite. The mixed oxide can contain one or more metal oxide promoters. The H form of the zeolite can be desilicated, and can also contain one or more transition metals.