Adsorption and solvent desorption behavior of ion-exchanged modified Y zeolites for sulfur removal and for fuel cell applications

► Adsorption/desorption behavior is markedly related with binding force. ► Most sulfur is recovered at initial stage during on site solvent washing. ► Outlet sulfur concentration cannot reach the corresponding initial sulfur level. ► Preferential adsorption of thiophenic sulfur exists in zeolites.