Removal of Dibenzothiophene from Diesels by Extraction and Catalytic Oxidation with Acetamide‐Based Deep Eutectic Solvents

Abstract

AbstractA series of acetamide‐based deep eutectic solvents (DESs) with different proportions were prepared. Extraction and catalytic oxidation desulfurization (ECODS) of the acetamide‐based DESs were investigated and the process was optimized. Such DESs with a molar ratio of acetamide and p‐TsOH of 1/3 (C2H5NO/3p‐TsOH) exhibits such a remarkable catalytic activity that the dibenzothiophene (DBT) removal could reach 100 % under optimized conditions. C2H5NO/3p‐TsOH was used for the oxidative desulfurization of actual commercial diesel. The sulfur removal of diesel achieved up to 98 %. C2H5NO/3p‐TsOH could be recycled six times and the desulfurization activity was slightly decreased. Evaluation of the mechanism indicated that oxidative desulfurization (ODS) was realized via dual activation of acetamide‐based DESs. A novel and effective way for deep desulfurization of diesel is provided.