Dehydrogenation of Light Alkanes (A Review)

Thermodynamic features of thermal and oxidative dehydrogenation of light alkanes, in particular, the dependence of the propane conversion of the temperature, pressure, and CO2 : propane ratio, are considered. Published data on the use of metal and oxide catalysts for these processes are summarized, and the oxidative dehydrogenation catalysts ensuring the best combination of conversion and selectivity, namely, chromium oxides on mesoporous supports, are revealed. The existing industrial dehydrogenation technologies are discussed.