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Hueckel theory examination of the hydrodenitrogenation of pyridine

Journal Article · · J. Phys. Chem.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/j150603a007· OSTI ID:6629282

In order to examine the relative ease by which the catalytic hydrodesulfurization of thiophene and the catalytic denitrogenation of pyridine proceed, I have used simple Hueckel molecular orbital theory to study both reactions. In both cases, the description of the catalyst (presumed to have been a typical cobalt-molybdenum catalyst) was kept the same in order to achieve consistency in the treatment of the two problems and comparability of the results. Application of the model yielded results consistent with the experimental observation that denitrogenation is more difficult than desulfurization. Six-membered rings, such as pyridine, produced a different distribution of ..pi.. molecular orbitals than were obtained with a five-membered ring, such as thiophene, in both the free and adsorbed states. Ring connectivity appeared to have been the primary factor affecting the electronic structures of the species undergoing the catalytic reactions.

Research Organization:
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, Rapid City
OSTI ID:
6629282
Journal Information:
J. Phys. Chem.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Phys. Chem.; (United States) Vol. 85:3; ISSN JPCHA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English