Improved conversion of stearic acid to diesel-like hydrocarbons by carbon nanotubes-supported CuCo catalysts

In this study, a novel carbon nanotube (CNT)-supported CuCo catalyst was successfully synthesized by wet impregnation. Experimental and theoretical results on catalytic deoxygenation of stearic acid, a model compound of microalgal bio-oil, revealed that the CuCo catalyst can effectively inhibit cracking reactions and promote production of diesel-like hydrocarbons. CuCo particles in the pores of CNTs were conducive to conversion of stearic acid to long-chain alkanes, featuring a high selectivity of 94.82% at 100% conversion. CuCo catalyst in oxidation state underwent fast in-situ reduction at the beginning of deoxygenation reaction, and its catalytic performance was comparable to that of reduced CuCo catalyst. The improved catalytic conversion of stearic acid to diesel-like hydrocarbons can be achieved at a high ratio of Cu-0/(Cu+ + Cu-0) and lattice Co atoms. In addition, the reduced H-2 pressure and amounts of catalysts show potential for large-scale industrial applications.