| Abstract |
A kinetic dual-function model was employed to simulate the performance of binary mixtures of Pt/zeolite catalysts (so-called hybrid catalysts) in the hydroconversion of n-paraffins. The catalytic activity and the maximal yield in feed isomers were simulated for mixtures of catalysts with distinct characteristics to investigate the conditions in which cooperative effects based on metal-acid balance may arise. Superior performances of the hybrids compared to both individual catalysts could be achieved in most of the simulated systems, particularly when mixing Pt-catalysts containing zeolites with dissimilar characteristics. A careful choice of the proportion and metal-acid balance of individual catalysts is, nevertheless, necessary. Moreover, the cooperation in the hybrid catalysts was rationalized based on the performance of the individual catalysts being mixed. The more alike the individual catalysts, to a certain extent, the broader the range of metal to acid sites ratio over which hybrids perform better than both individuals. On the other hand, the relative gain in performance arising from the cooperative effect would decrease. This study unveils hence the influence of each one of the preparation parameters of hybrid catalysts on its behaviour shedding light into the complexity of such catalytic systems. |
