Preliminary study on the TS-1 deactivation during styrene oxidation with H2O2

The deactivation of the TS-1 zeolite during styrene oxidation with H₂O₂ has been investigated by a series of kinetic experiments and further characterisation of the spent catalysts. A decline of the TS-1 activity with time has been observed, especially during the first hours of reaction. TG and TPD–MS analyses of the spent catalysts show that the main products occluded within the zeolite pores are styrene, phenylacetaldehyde and benzaldehyde. The presence of styrene oligomeric compounds has also been detected, although it is postulated they are formed mainly in the solution outside the zeolite pores. Diffusional hindrances due to the high degree of occupancy of the TS-1 pores, as well as, a strong adsorption of styrene, phenylacetaldehyde and benzaldehyde on the Ti sites are proposed as the main reasons for the TS-1 deactivation. These phenomena are enhanced at lower reaction temperatures, which cause a faster initial deactivation. Likewise, longer reaction times favour preferential chemisorption of aldehydes versus styrene.