Reactive Adsorption Desulfurization by Nanocrystalline ZnO/Zeolite A Molecular Sieves

Nanocrystalline ZnO/Zeolite type A composite was prepared by simple method of operation by . the precipitation of zinc oxide and loading on zeolite 5A in one step. Characterization was made by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence(XRF), N2 adsorption- desorption for BET surface area, and Atomic force microscopy (AFM). Results showed that zinc oxide was loaded on zeolite as noticed by the characteristic peaks and was of nano scale having an average diameter of 88.57nm. The percentage loading of ZnO on zeolite A was 28.37% and the surface area was 222m2/g. The activity of the prepared catalyst was examined in the desulfurization of double hydrogenated diesel fuel. The process was investigated in a controlled autoclave with temperature range studied 100220 oC. Results indicated an oxidation of thiophenic compounds on the surface of the catalyst coupled with adsorption. About 35% reduction was obtained and the capacity was 10.56 mg S/g catalyst.