Novel heterogeneous iron-based redox ionic liquid supported on SBA-15 for deep oxidative desulfurization of fuels

A novel catalyst, based on iron-based redox ionic liquid modified mesoporous SBA-15 material was successfully prepared and applied to the removal of sulfur compounds in model oil. Sample structures were extensively studied by XRD, N2 adsorption-desorption, TEM, FTIR, DRS, and XPS analysis. This strategy provided a catalyst system with high surface area, high accessibility for substrate and oxidant. In the process of extractive catalytic oxidative desulfurization (ECODS) of model oil, [Omim]BF4 served as not only the extractant and the reaction media but also co-catalyst. Under the optimal conditions, the sulfur removal could reach 94.3%. The mechanism of the ECODS system was also proposed.