Ethane dehydrogenation over Co-based MOR zeolites

Cobalt-based catalysts supported on MOR zeolites with various degree of dealumination were prepared and characterized by XRD, N 2 adsorption, SEM, UV–vis, XPS, H 2 -TPR and FTIR. Their catalytic performance for ethane dehydrogenation was compared. More Co(II) species were found on the surface of dealuminated zeolites, leading to an enhancement in dehydrogenation activity. An ethane conversion of 53.4% with 92.1% selectivity to ethylene can be obtained over optimal catalyst. Characterization results indicate the increasing Co(II) species may derive from the increased silanol nest of MOR support via dealumination, which can interact with cobalt precursor to enhance its dispersion.