Sulfated zirconia as a novel and recyclable catalyst for removal of olefins from aromatics

• A novel and recyclable sulfated zirconia catalyst was synthesized.
• Acidity and texture analysis of the catalyst was performed.
• Excellent catalytic activity was obtained for removal of olefins from aromatics.
• The catalyst took on favorable reusability.

A novel sulfated zirconia (ZrO2/SO42 −) catalyst was prepared and the catalytic property of this catalyst was compared with active clay and zeolite (USY) in removing olefins from aromatics. Pyridine-FTIR indicated that the abundance of Lewis acid centers on sulfated zirconia is a vital factor for its excellent catalytic activity. N2 adsorption analysis shows that sulfated zirconia is a promising mesopore catalyst material. The superior catalytic performance as well as efficient reusability demonstrated that sulfated zirconia possesses bright application prospects in industry.

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