Catalytic Dehydrogenation of Light Alkanes on Metals and Metal Oxides
Jesper J. H. B. Sättler, Javier Ruiz-Martı́nez, Eduardo Santillan‐Jimenez, Bert M. Weckhuysen
Abstract
A study is conducted to demonstrate catalytic dehydrogenation of light alkanes on metals and metal oxides. The study provides a complete overview of the materials used to catalyze this reaction, as dehydrogenation for the production of light olefins has become extremely relevant. Relevant factors, such as the specific nature of the active sites, as well as the effect of support, promoters, and reaction feed on catalyst performance and lifetime, are discussed for each catalytic Material. The study compares different catalysts in terms of the reaction mechanism and deactivation pathways and catalytic performance. The duration of the dehydrogenation step depends on the heat content of the catalyst bed, which decreases rapidly due to the endothermic nature of the reaction. Part of the heat required for the reaction is introduced to the reactors by preheating the reaction feed, additional heat being provided by adjacent reactors that are regenerating the coked catalysts.