Fabrication of Mo/Co-alumina-coated kaolin-based catalytic membrane for use in a catalytic membrane reactor

Abstract

In this research work, for the first time, the coating of Mo/Co-alumina catalytic layer on kaolin-based low-cost tubular support was investigated. Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanopowder (solid lubricant), silica gel (additive), and sodium metasilicate (binder) powder were used to synthesize appropriate lubricant solution for coating of the catalyst over the exterior surface of the ceramic support. Paint coating technique was adopted for simplicity, ease of methodology, and minimization of cost. The result showed that the lubricant solution containing silica gel and sodium metasilicate could not be used for the preparation of layers. However, the coating solution without silica gel and sodium metasilicate were completely stable, dispersible, and the fabricated layer distributed finely over the ceramic support. The prepared catalytic membrane had suitable porous and crack-free microstructure with a desirable crystalline phase, indicating proper distribution and dispersion of catalyst over the support membrane surface. The removal or recovery of elemental sulfur using the fabricated catalytic membrane and membrane reactor (CMR) as a function of catalytic activity is also reported.