TIANJIN: Chinese scientists have developed a cost-effective and environmentally friendly catalyst for the production of propylene, with findings published on Friday as a cover article in the journal Science.
This catalyst exhibits exceptional propylene selectivity and stability, which can reduce costs by 30 to 50 percent and ensure non-toxic and low energy consumption during catalyst preparation and use, according to a research team from the Energy and Catalysis Adventure Team at Tianjin University. .
Propylene is one of the most widespread chemicals worldwide and serves as a basic raw material in the production of plastics, rubber, fibers and medicines.
In 2023, China’s propylene production will exceed 60 million tons, accounting for about one-third of global production, with a total value exceeding 600 billion yuan (about US$84.1 billion).
Among the various propylene production technologies, propane dehydrogenation (PDH) is preferred due to its high economic efficiency and reduced dependence on petroleum. However, traditional PDH catalysts rely heavily on expensive platinum or highly toxic chromium oxide, making the process expensive and environmentally friendly.
A team of researchers proposed a scientific hypothesis that uses cheap and environmentally friendly oxides to interact electronically with metals, improving the catalytic process. Based on this hypothesis, they developed a composite catalyst based on titanium oxide and nickel.
The researchers fine-tuned the electronic transfer between titanium oxide and nickel, increasing the catalytic activity while suppressing side reactions such as cracking and carbon deposition.
This innovation provides insight into the next generation of efficient, cost-effective and sustainable propylene catalysts, according to the researchers.
