Coke-induced deactivation in zeolite catalysts: mechanisms, anti-coking modifications, and regeneration approaches

Zeolite catalysts, widely employed in petrochemical and refining processes, inevitably undergo gradual deactivation. Among the various deactivation pathways, coke-induced deactivation is the most critical, arising from the progressive deposition of carbonaceous species on acid sites and the subsequent blockage of micropores. The characteristics, mechanisms, and kinetics of coke formation are strongly influenced by the zeolite structure, acidity properties, and operating conditions, highlighting the need for a molecular-level understanding to guide catalyst design and regeneration. This review summarizes the recent advances in coke-induced deactivation of zeolite catalysts by covering the mechanisms and physicochemical characteristics of coke formation, strategies for enhancing coke resistance through rational catalyst design, and state-of-the-art regeneration approaches. By bridging fundamental insights and practical strategies, this work aims to support the development of durable zeolite catalysts and efficient regeneration schemes for sustainable industrial applications.