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Hydrodesulfurization of thiophenic compounds: the reaction mechanism

Journal Article · · J. Catal.; (United States)

It has often been assumed that catalytic hydrodesulfurization of thiophene and related compounds proceeds via a one-point end-on adsorption involving bonding of the sulfur atom with Mo ions at an anion vacancy on the catalyst surface. This interpretation is inadequate, failing to account for hydrogen-deuterium exchange results, the reactivities of benzothiophene and dibenzothiophene, and the small steric effects of methyl substituents on the adsorption and reaction of compounds in the thiophene, benzothiopene, and dibenzothiophene families of homologs. An alternative mechanism, presented here, involves a multipoint adsorption of the reactant, with a C=C bond interacting with a Mo cation, and the S atom of the reactant interacting with an S ion on the surface. The new mechanism accounts for the observed deuterium exchange and hydrodesulfurization reactions and is consistent with the observed steric effects. 24 references, 5 figures.

Research Organization:
Univ. of Delaware, Newark
OSTI ID:
5378538
Journal Information:
J. Catal.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Catal.; (United States) Vol. 61:1; ISSN JCTLA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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