Innovative Pathway for Aromatics Production from CO2 and Propane
Key Ideas
- Traditional production routes for aromatics face challenges from tight petroleum resources and carbon emissions, prompting the need for innovative solutions.
- Researchers in Dalian developed a novel process using H-ZSM-5 catalyst to efficiently produce aromatics by coupling CO2 and propane.
- Introduction of CO2 in the process significantly improved aromatic selectivity by approximately 30%, showcasing enhanced carbon utilization efficiency.
- The study revealed a new coupling conversion mechanism over acidic zeolites, demonstrating the direct participation of carbon atoms from CO2 in aromatic formation.
Aromatics are vital chemicals used across various industries, but traditional petroleum-based production methods are under pressure due to resource scarcity and carbon emissions. In Dalian, China, researchers at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics and Dalian University of Technology have introduced an innovative approach to produce aromatics by coupling carbon dioxide (CO2) and propane using H-ZSM-5 catalyst. This novel process overcomes the carbon-hydrogen balance limitation of traditional methods, with CO2 enhancing aromatic selectivity by 30%. By regulating the zeolite acidity, the formation of aromatics was promoted while suppressing alkane byproducts. The research unveiled a new mechanism where propane is converted into olefins, then reacts with CO2 to form lactones before turning into aromatics. The study highlights the potential of utilizing CO2 to improve carbon utilization efficiency and reduce environmental impact in the production of aromatics.