The Open Catalysis Journal

2009, 2 : 110-118
Published online 2009 July 03. DOI: 10.2174/1876214X00902010110
Publisher ID: TOCATJ-2-110

Influence of Solvent on the Pore Structure and Activity of Pt-Sn/Alumino- Silicate Catalysts

Riad M. and Mikhail S.
Egyptian Petroleum Research Institute, Nasr City, Hai Al-Zehour, P.O. Box 11727, Cairo, Egypt.

ABSTRACT

Kaolinite supported bimetallic Pt-Sn catalysts were prepared via impregnation technique using different solvents, water, ethanol and acetone. The catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction pattern and temperature programmed reduction techniques. Surface area and pore size distribution were determined by nitrogen physisorption technique. The activities of the catalysts were measured toward n-pentane isomerization reaction in a pulse micro-catalytic reactor operated under atmospheric pressure and at reaction temperature ranged from 200-450oC. The results indicated that the selectivity of the Pt-Sn/kaolinite catalysts toward iso-pentane formation decreased from ethanol to acetone and then to water. Pore size distribution and diffusion coefficient of reactant and products are responsible for the high selectivity of Pt-Sn /kaolinte (ethanol) catalyst towards iso-pentane formation.

Keywords:

Kaolinite, Pt-Sn, catalyst.