Progress of construction of metal-zeolite catalysts for propane dehydrogenation

The dehydrogenation of propane into propene is a crucial value-added process for producing raw chemicals from light hydrocarbons, such as shale gas. However, it faces challenges such as low propene yield and significant catalyst deactivation. In recent years, zeolite supported subnanometer or nanoparticles catalysts have attracted considerable attention and made remarkable progress due to their superior activity and exceptionally high thermal stability. In this review, we present an overview of design ideas of metal-containing zeolite catalysts used for propane dehydrogenation (PDH) reactions, with an emphasis on developments over the past ten years. A comprehensive summary is provided, encompassing the methodologies for preparing zeolite-supported metal catalysts, regulating the active site, modifying the pore structure and acid properties of zeolites, as well as their catalytic performances in PDH. The analyses emphasize the role and mechanism of metal-metal and/or metal-zeolite interactions in adjusting the structure of active sites, stabilizing metal species, enhancing catalytic performance and facilitating propylene production. Finally, the future directions of catalyst design for alkane dehydrogenation are envisioned.