Sulfated Nickel Zeolite Catalyst Characterization

Sulfated nickel/Y-zeolite catalyst has been prepared via impregnation technique. The incorporation of the prepared nickel sulfate precursor into the zeolite support structure has been investigated by using different characterization techniques. The activity and selectivity of the prepared sulfated nickel/Y-zeolite catalyst have been studied through cumene conversion reaction using a catalytic flow system operated under atmospheric pressure and at reaction temperature ranging between 300-425°C. The influence of sulfate species on promoting the catalytic activity toward the formation of the various products, mainly the heavy alkylated benzenes, has also been followed. The data obtained indicated that sulfate species play a dual role as a source of higher acidity and oxidizing character exerted from their induction effect on nickel metal and the hydration factor of the sulfuric acid used or the polynucleated sulfate species formed upon calcination.