Vapor Phase Upgrading over Metal Catalysts in the Presence of H2

The use of biomass for a sustainable energy solution relies on advancements in the catalytic reduction of bio-oil into useful hydrocarbon compounds.  Current technology utilizes zeolite catalysts which successfully upgrade pyrolysis vapors to desired products; however the current catalysts lack sufficiently high levels of stability.  One form of deactivation is caused by the production of coke on the catalytic surface, which blocks active sites, preventing dehydration reactions necessary for biofuel production.  Past research has shown that promoting the zeolite structure with metals, particularly nickel and platinum, and running the reaction in the presence of hydrogen gas prevents coke accumulation while maintaining or improving the activity of the catalyst.  In this study four catalytic loadings of Pt and Ni were synthesized and compared to the support ZSM-5 structure.  Reaction tests were performed at 450°C, 500°C, and 550°C under 2:1 mole hydrogen to ethanol gas conditions to understand the metal’s effect on the activity and stability of the catalyst under varying reaction parameters.  It was found that the addition of these metals increases activity as well as decreases coke production.  Additionally product selectivity was found to vary across the different experimental parameters.  Initial product analysis will be discussed.