Studying the mechanism and kinetics of fuel desulfurization using CexOy/NiOx piezo-catalysts as a new low-temperature method

Abstract In order to advance desulfurization technology, a new method for excellent oxidative desulfurization of fuel at room temperature will be of paramount importance. As a novel desulfurization method, we developed piezo-catalysts that do not require adding any oxidants and can be performed at r...

Full description

Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Sangar S. Ahmed, Omid Amiri, Karwan M. Rahman, Savana J. Ismael, Noor S. Rasul, Darya Mohammad, Karukh A. Babakr, Nabaz A. Abdulrahman
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Nature Portfolio 2023-05-01
Series:Scientific Reports
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-34329-y
Description
Summary:Abstract In order to advance desulfurization technology, a new method for excellent oxidative desulfurization of fuel at room temperature will be of paramount importance. As a novel desulfurization method, we developed piezo-catalysts that do not require adding any oxidants and can be performed at room temperature. A microwave method was used to prepare CeO2/Ce2O3/NiOx nanocomposites. Model and real fuel desulfurization rates were examined as a function of synthesis parameters, such as microwave power and time, and operation conditions, such as pH and ultrasonic power. The results showed that CeO2/Ce2O3/NiOx nanocomposites demonstrated outstanding piezo-desulfurization at room temperature for both model and real fuels. Furthermore, CeO2/Ce2O3/NiOx nanocomposites exhibited remarkable reusability, maintaining 79% of their piezo-catalytic activity even after 17 repetitions for desulfurization of real fuel. An investigation of the mechanism of sulfur oxidation revealed that superoxide radicals and holes played a major role. Additionally, the kinetic study revealed that sulfur removal by piezo-catalyst follows a second-order reaction kinetic model.
ISSN:2045-2322