Direct observation of induction period of MTO process with consecutive pulse reaction system

The initial transformation of methanol over HZSM-5 catalyst was investigated by a consecutive pulse reaction system. The reactant–catalyst contact time influenced the initial methanol transformation and the performances implied methanol reaction in induction period or under steady-state condition. The induction period, in which an organic-free HZSM-5 catalyst could be transferred to a working catalyst, were directly observed. The analysis result of the product stream predicted hydrogen-deficient species deposition over catalyst surface at the beginning of MTO reaction. The hydrogen transfer level of steady-state MTO reaction also varied with reaction contact time.