Cordially invites you to the Seminar

 

Synthesis Strategies in the Search for Hierarchical Zeolites for Heavy Oil Upgrading; Hierarchical FAU-Type Y Zeolites Designed by Novel Post-Synthetic Approach

 

Research Scientist,

Center of Research Excellence in Refining and Petrochemicals,  KFUPM

 

Microporous aluminosilicate zeolites were and will continue to be the choice for many catalytic reactions associated with the oil refining and petrochemical industries, owing to their multidimensional network of micropores of molecular dimensions (the so-called “micro-reactor” of 0.25-1 nm in size). However, zeolites often are the victim of their own success since narrow micropores enforce an intracrystalline configurational diffusion, which severely restrict the accessibility of bulky hydrocarbons and result in slow intracrystalline diffusion. Therefore, utilization of their inner active sites, particularly for processing high molecular weight petroleum fractions and synthesizing large molecules used as fine chemicals, has been a great challenge. In this talk, we will present our recent results aimed at alleviating the limited diffusion of the zeolite micropores. In particular, the talk will focus on the synthesis of hierarchical Y zeolites of FAU framework type by post-synthetic treatments. The novel top-down approach is based on the sequential treatment by dealumination followed by quaternary alkylammonium cations mediated desilication. These novel hierarchical faujasites might be quite promising catalysts in the upgrading of heavy oil distillates and fractions, which contain large concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Date:  Wednesday, November 19th, 2014

Time:  11:00 AM

Venu: Building 4 – Rm 125

Get-Together with Refreshments: 10:50-11:00 am in B4-125

Courtesy: SAICSC-ACS