Synthesis and catalytic evaluation of CoMo/SBA-15 catalysts for oxidative removal of dibenzothiophene from a model diesel

Three CoMo/SBA-15 catalysts were synthesized using impregnation method with different Co and Mo contents at a Mo/Co molar ratio 15. Their catalytic properties were evaluated for dibenzothiophene (DBT) oxidation in a model diesel fuel. Molybdate microctystals and 3-CoMoO4 were formed in each catalyst, the former was chiefly responsible for the DBT oxidation, while the latter was an inactive phase. Increasing the CoMo metal loading may inhibit beta-CoMoO4 formation but increases the amount of Co-modified molybdate microcrystals, and thus, improves significantly the catalytic activity. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.