Influence of solvent on the pore structure and activity of Pt-Sn/alumino-silicate catalysts

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 200-450°C. 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. © Riad and Mikhail.