Oxidative Desulfurization of Dibenzothiophene by Zirconia-Based Catalysts

Abstract

Abstract The objective of this study is to report usage of laboratory-prepared zirconia-based samples, normal zirconia (ZD), calcined zirconia at 893 K (ZC) and sulfated and calcined zirconia at 893 K (SZC), as potential catalysts for the oxidative removal of sulfur from model oil (dibenzothiophene in iso-octane). Optimum catalyst doses for all catalysts were found to be 1.0 g/L. The catalytic oxidation of DBT on zirconia samples was found to be a gradual process, and quasi-equilibrium reached in 6 h. Kinetic and thermodynamic parameters have also been calculated.