Modern concepts on catalysis of hydroprocessing and synthesis of alcohols from syngas by transition metal sulfides

Abstract

A concept on the dynamic nature of active centers (AC) of the catalysts based on transition metal sulfides is described. The concept formed the basis of a “dynamic” model, according to which AC formed and functioning under the reaction conditions can oscillate between layers of promoted molybdenum sulfide. The model assumes the existence of “rapid” and “slow” AC and the possibility of their intertransformation due to the reversible migration of sulfur and promoter between the crystallite layers in a hydrogen atmosphere. The frequency of these migrations (oscillations) determines the catalyst activity. An assumption is substantiated that the hydrogenation sites are localized at the rims of Co(Ni)MoS2 crystallites and desulfurization (hydrodesulfurization) sites are localized on the edges. The proposed model makes it possible to develop criteria for the evaluation of the efficiency of catalytic performance for hydrodesulfurization of hydrocarbon raw materials of various types and for synthesis of higher alcohols from syngas.