Spatial Distribution of Zeolite ZSM‐5 within Catalyst Bodies Affects Selectivity and Stability of Methanol‐to‐Hydrocarbons Conversion

Abstract

Implicated in the catalysis crime: The spatial distribution of zeolite ZSM-5 aggregates within industrial-like catalyst bodies has a vast impact on the methanol-to-olefin selectivity and overall stability of the catalyst. Catalyst bodies with smaller ZSM-5 aggregates yield more olefins, less paraffins, and significantly less coke than catalyst bodies containing less dispersed ZSM-5 crystals. This result has direct implications on the way catalysts are prepared and manufactured.