A comprehensive review of performance, innovation, challenges and future directions of desulfurization technologies

This review gives a structured evaluation of desulfurization methods, grouped by method and fuel type for clarity. It begins with hydrodesulfurization (HDS), the industry standard for removing bulk sulfur, which is less effective for refractory sulfur compounds due to high working temperatures, pressures, and catalyst prices. As a supplementary method, oxidative desulfurization (ODS) uses the right oxidants and catalysts to efficiently oxidize these compounds in milder conditions. Using cutting-edge materials like metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and activated carbons, adsorptive desulfurization (ADS) provides reduced operating complexity and cost for lighter fuels. Although extractive desulfurization (EDS) and biomass desulfurization (BDS) demonstrate the ability to remove sulfur selectively, they are constrained by slower reaction rates and chemical or biological limitations. By evaluating the benefits, difficulties, and recent developments, this review offers a thorough grasp of their current state and possible future applications in achieving cleaner fuels. It also examines desulfurization technologies for particular fuel types, such as heavy oil, gasoline, diesel, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). It also assesses catalysts, operating conditions, and efficiency, while highlighting the role of solvents and process variables in determining effectiveness.