Synthesis and catalytic cracking performance of Fe/Ti-ZSM-5 zeolite from attapulgite mineral

Fe/Ti-ZSM-5 zeolite was synthesized successfully from treated attapulgite (ATP). This mineral consists of amorphous silica containing Fe and Ti species. X-ray diffraction patterns, scanning electron microscopy images, and nitrogen sorption isotherms indicate that the sample has a typical MFI structure, high crystallinity, and large specific surface area. Temperature-programmed desorption of ammonia and H2 temperature-programmed reduction indicates that the Fe/Ti-ZSM-5 zeolite is strongly acidic and has superior redox properties. More importantly, compared with conventional ZSM-5 zeolite, Fe/Ti-ZSM-5 performs well, resulting in an increase in yield of 0.21% propylene and 0.33% total light olefins in the catalytic cracking of Canadian LGO (light gas oil). These results suggest that the presence of Fe and Ti species in ZSM-5 zeolite is favorable for enhancing light olefin yields, which is potentially important for oil refining in the future.

Graphical AbstractFe/Ti-ZSM-5 zeolite was synthesized from treated attapulgite (ATP) mineral. Compared with conventional ZSM-5 zeolite, Fe/Ti-ZSM-5 exhibits relatively high yields of light olefins in the catalytic cracking of Canadian light gas oil.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide