Pt−Sn/MgAl2O4 as n-Butane Dehydrogenation Catalyst in a Two-Zone Fluidized-Bed Reactor

Abstract

n-Butane dehydrogenation over a Pt−Sn/MgAl2O4 catalyst has been carried out in a two-zone fluidized-bed reactor (TZFBR), where oxidation and reduction of this catalyst occurs in the same vessel but in separate zones. This allows working in a continuous mode with in situ catalyst regeneration, unlike traditional systems that require two different reactors or a single reactor with periodic operation. The effect of the main TZFBR operating variables was studied and its performance compared with that of a conventional fluidized-bed reactor loaded with the same catalyst and with other reactor + catalyst systems. Compared with a previous work in a similar reactor with another catalyst, the selectivity is improved because of the lower tendency to coke formation of the Pt−Sn/MgAl2O4 catalyst.