Effect of rare earth metal ions on the structural and textural properties of NaFAU-Y zeolite and vapour phase alkylation of benzene with 1-octene

Abstract

676-688Rare earth exchanged (La3+, Ce3+, RE3+, Sm3+) Na-Y zeolites were prepared by simple ion exchange methods. X-ray diffraction pattern and IR spectral studies show that the frameworks remain intact after exchange with rare earth metal ions. The surface acidic properties were determined by temperature programmed desorption of ammonia (NH3-TPD). 1H MAS-NMR spectral study shows the presence of highly acidic bridging hydroxy groups in the zeolite structure. Considerable enhancement in the acid structural properties is observed on rare earth exchange. Strain induced by the bulky rare earth metal cations on the zeolitic framework has been followed by a perceptible shift in the positions of 29Si and 27Al MAS-NMR spectral peaks. The migration of counter cations, especially lanthanum, in the repulsive electrostatic field of sodium has been established using 29Si and 27Al MAS-NMR studies. The catalytic efficiency of the prepared systems was tested for the alkylation of benzene with 1-octene. Zeolite Na-Y shows very low activity due the negative influence of Na+ ions on the Brönsted acid centres. Rare earth exchanged forms invariably show better selectivity for the desired 2-phenyloctane formation. Catalysts are susceptible for deactivation due to blocking of the pores by alkylation products. These studies show that the rare earth exchanged zeolites exhibit better resistance towards deactivation