Abstract
In this study, a PtSn/Al(2)O(3) catalyst with bimetallic uniform distribution in the sphere was synthesized. The PDH performance and characterization analyses, such as with FTIR, XPS, and NH(3)-TPD, were investigated. The effects of acid on the PDH performance were analyzed. Citric acid (CA) acted as a competing adsorbent in the preparation process of the PtSn/Al(2)O(3) catalyst to synthesize the uniform catalyst. Water washing and alkali-treated samples were also studied. SEM line scanning revealed that increased the apparent concentration of Pt metal from 0.23 to 0.30 with citric acid. In contrast to the fresh PtSn/Al(2)O(3) catalyst, the addition of citric acid increased the PDH selectivity from 74% to 93%. After alkali or water washing treatments, the catalyst's selectivity further increased to 96%. Strong acid sites promoted the breaking of C-C bonds during the PDH reaction, resulting in more methane and ethylene byproducts, and decreased catalyst selectivity for fresh PtSn/Al(2)O(3). From the PDH reaction thermodynamic analysis, a relatively sub-atmospheric pressure environment with a lower propane pressure could be the reasonable choice.