UZM-14 Catalyst Crystallite Size for C9+ Aromatic Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current catalysts for converting aromatic hydrocarbons are limited in their ability to effectively convert aromatics heavier than C9 to lighter products, necessitating the development of more efficient catalysts for increased yield of para-xylene and benzene.
Innovation Solution
A catalyst comprising a UZM-14 aggregate material with specific crystallite characteristics, a zeolitic component, a binder, and a metal component, which enhances accessibility and selectivity in transalkylation processes by incorporating a UZM-14 aggregate material with a MOR framework, mesopore volume, and a metal component of nickel and molybdenum.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional catalysts are used for transalkylation, then benzene and para-xylene can be produced, but the conversion of aromatics heavier than C9 to lighter products is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the catalyst by controlling crystallite size (0.5-5 micrometers) and mesopore volume (0.08-0.18 cc/gram) of the UZM-14 material, which enables better accessibility to C9+ aromatics and improves conversion to lighter products while maintaining catalytic effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite catalyst system combining UZM-14 zeolite with specific metal components (Ni, Mo, W, or their sulfides) and binder materials, where the synergistic interaction between components enhances both the conversion of heavy aromatics and the reliability of the transalkylation process
2Productivity
If catalysts are designed to yield benzene and para-xylene, then these preferred products are obtained, but the relative yield does not match the proportions from aromatics-generating processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adjusts the UZM-14 crystallite size and mesopore volume parameters to optimize the product distribution, enabling better matching between the catalyst output and the feedstock composition from catalytic reforming and cracking processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces specific metal components (Ni, Mo, W) at controlled concentrations (0.01-5 wt%) within the UZM-14 structure to create localized active sites that enhance selectivity for para-xylene and benzene while maintaining overall process flexibility
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 catalyst demonstrates improved activity and selectivity in transalkylation reactions, achieving higher conversion rates of aromatics, particularly in producing C8 aromatics, thereby addressing the limitations of existing catalysts.
Implementation Method 1
a catalyst suitable for the conversion of aromatic hydrocarbons which comprises a UZM-14 aggregate material comprising globular aggregates of crystallites having a MOR framework type
Implementation Method 2
a mesopore volume of at least 0.10 cc/gram
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The subject invention comprises a novel UZM-14 catalytic material comprising globular aggregates of crystallites having a MOR framework type with a mean crystallite length parallel to the direction of 12-ring channels of 60 nm or less and a mesopore volume of at least 0.10 cc/gram. Catalysts formed from the novel material are particularly effective for the transalkylation of aromatics.