SBA-15 Supported Bimetallic Catalysts for Enhancement Isomers Production During n-Heptane Decomposition

Abstract

Abstract Santa Barbara Amorphous (SBA)-15 supported 1% (Pt–Ni), 1% (Pt–Co) and 1% (Ni–Co) bimetallic catalysts in a heterogeneous reaction for enhancement hydroisomerization and hydrocracking production during reforming or decomposition of n-heptane. The structural and textural features of the nanoporous silicas, both with and without encapsulated nanoparticles, were characterized using small-angle X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, EDAX, nitrogen adsorption–desorption porosimetry (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller) surface area analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The catalytic performance was evaluated at 250–400°C under atmospheric pressure in a plug-flow reactor in a catalyst testing rig under tightly controlled conditions of temperature, reactant flow rate and pressure. The species leaving the reactor were analysed by Gas Chromatography. The results show that 1% (Pt–Ni)/SBA-15, 1% (Pt–Co)/SBA-15 and 1% (Ni–Co)/SBA-15 had a high activity for conversion of n-heptane (around 85%). The selectivity of isomerization is not high, so further studies have to be carried out in the future.