Phosphorus-modified ZSM-5 for conversion of ethanol to propylene

In this work, phosphorus-modified ZSM-5 zeolites were used to transform ethanol to propylene. The selectivity of propylene formation depended strongly on the phosphorus content in the zeolites; the highest propylene yield (32%) was observed over H-ZSM-5(80) modified with phosphorus at a P/Al molar ratio of 0.5. The enhancement of propylene selectivity with increasing phosphorus content was attributed to reduction of strong acid sites on the H-ZSM-5. Modification of the zeolite with phosphorous also improved the material's catalytic stability.

Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (65 K)Download as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights▶ Propylene selectivity depends on the phosphorus content. ▶ Phosphorus modification leads to a decrease of strong acid sites. ▶ Reduction of strong acid sites enhances propylene selectivity. ▶ Phosphorous modification improves catalytic stability.