The deactivation of silico-aluminophosphate catalysts during methanol conversion reactions

Abstract

This dissertation focusses on the deactivation of SAP0-34 and modified SAPOs during methanol conversion under various conditions, in comparison to H-ZSM-5. SAPO-34 was found to deactivate rapidly during methanol conversdon. This was shown by the decrease in activity, surface area and pore volume of the catalyst. The deposited "coke" was analysed by in situ diffuse reflectance infra-red Fourier Transform spectroscopy,solid-state magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance, gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GCMS) of the HF- and dichloromethane-extracted to "coke"; and GCMS of the organic specfes released during regeneration of the catalyst and trapped in resin capillary inlet tubes.The "coke" consisted of alkylated aromatics and naphthalenes which probably formed on the surface or in the large cavities of SAPO-34. The amount of "coke" deposited during methanol conversion increased with reaction temperature, decreased with dilution of the methanol with water or nitrogen. and decreased with increased pressure, Incorporation of Ni into the SAPO framework did not decrease the rate of deactivation, but the "coke" that Has deposited was less bulky than that deposited in SAPO-34. Modification of the SAPO-34 with trlmethyl silylchloride decreased the rate at deactivation of the catalyst.