Synthesis of bio-inspired N-doped SiC and investigation of its synergetic effects on Mo catalysts in oxidative desulfurization reaction

Abstract

Bio-inspired N-doped silicon carbide/Mo composites have been successfully synthesized through a facile method, combining magnesiothermic synthesis of biomorphic N-doped SiC by using gelatin biopolymer and embedded molybdenum composites forming in situ. The resulting composite materials contain MoO2, Mo2C, and MoSi2 particles dispersed well on N-doped SiC matrix. The composites displayed superior catalytic properties in oxidative desulfurization of model fuel (99.6%). The comparison between catalytic activity of N-doped SiC, N-doped carbon and SiC without nitrogen dopants demonstrated that N-doped SiC composites are more promising for ODS reaction. Comparable catalytic activity, higher durability, and lower reaction time are the advantages make this composite a good ODS catalysts and a green and cost-effective alternative for practical desulfurization of fuel.