Influence of gallium on the properties of Pt–Re/Al2O3 naphtha reforming catalysts

The influence of gallium on the properties of Pt–Re/Al2O3 catalysts used in naphtha reforming was studied. The catalysts were prepared by the coimpregnation method. It was found that the addition of gallium to the Pt–Re/Al2O3 catalyst diminishes its acidity (Brønsted and Lewis). It also produces an inhibition of the metal function, i.e. dehydrogenation and hydrogenolysis activity. Activity tests for n-C5 isomerization showed that gallium addition decreases the total activity of the Pt–Re catalyst but increases its selectivity to i-C5 isomers. The selectivity to low value light gases (C1–C3) is particularly decreased. Catalytic tests for n-C7 reforming showed that addition of gallium increases both catalyst stability and selectivity to aromatics, and decreases the production of light gases.

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► The influence of Ga addition on the properties and performance of Pt–Re/Al2O3 catalysts for naphtha reforming was studied.
► The incorporation of Ga decreases both acidity (Brønsted and Lewis) and metal functions (dehydrogenation and hydrogenolysis).
► Catalyst stability and selectivity to aromatics were improved, and a lower production of light was observed upon Ga addition.