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Assessment of diffusional inhibition via primary and secondary cracking analysis

Journal Article · · J. Catal.; (United States)
Although the importance of diffusional effects in heterogeneous catalysis has long been recognized, in routine practice this factor is often overlooked. Methods of evaluating intraparticle diffusional inhibition usually involve the testing of two or more particle sizes of the same material. This procedure can reveal diffusional inhibition only if it exists in the macropores, but not if in the micropores, the lengths of which are unchanged by such manipulation. An alternative is to take a kinetic approach. The objective of this paper is to show how cracking, which is a ubiquitous reaction in hydrocarbon catalysis, can be analyzed to obtain diffusion information. The paper first describes the mechanics of PASCA (primary and secondary cracking analysis), showing how sequential reaction analysis is possible despite the lack of a formal B and C molecule. Based on this, an index of diffusional inhibition is derived. Finally, experimental data illustrating the application of PASCA is presented.
Research Organization:
Exxon Research and Engineering Co., Annandale, NJ (USA)
OSTI ID:
5217453
Journal Information:
J. Catal.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Catal.; (United States) Vol. 106:1; ISSN JCTLA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English