Non-catalytic deep desulphurization process using hydrodynamic cavitation

TitleNon-catalytic deep desulphurization process using hydrodynamic cavitation
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2016
AuthorsSuryawanshi, NB, Bhandari, VM, Sorokhaibam, LGayatri, Ranade, VV
JournalScientific Reports
Volume6
PaginationArticle Number: 33021
Date PublishedSEP
ISSN2045-2322
Abstract

A novel approach is developed for desulphurization of fuels or organics without use of catalyst. In this process, organic and aqueous phases are mixed in a predefined manner under ambient conditions and passed through a cavitating device. Vapor cavities formed in the cavitating device are then collapsed which generate (in-situ) oxidizing species which react with the sulphur moiety resulting in the removal of sulphur from the organic phase. In this work, vortex diode was used as a cavitating device. Three organic solvents (n-octane, toluene and n-octanol) containing known amount of a model sulphur compound (thiophene) up to initial concentrations of 500 ppm were used to verify the proposed method. A very high removal of sulphur content to the extent of 100% was demonstrated. The nature of organic phase and the ratio of aqueous to organic phase were found to be the most important process parameters. The results were also verified and substantiated using commercial diesel as a solvent. The developed process has great potential for deep of various organics, in general, and for transportation fuels, in particular.

DOI10.1038/srep33021
Type of Journal (Indian or Foreign)

Foreign

Impact Factor (IF)5.228
Divison category: 
Chemical Engineering & Process Development