Waste-derived Zeolites and Shaped Catalyst Bodies for the Methanol-to-Hydrocarbons Reaction

This PhD Thesis focuses on zeolite-based catalyst materials for the conversion of methanol into hydrocarbons. More specifically, there were two main aims of this research work: (1) a better understanding of waste-derived zeolite materials and the effect of impurities and (2) the unravelling of matrix effects, as induced by the addition of binder materials and additives, in zeolite-alumina shaped catalyst bodies. Within this framework, this PhD Thesis consists of seven Chapters. Chapter 1 gives a general introduction into the field of methanol conversion, waste-derived zeolites, and formulation of powder materials into shaped catalyst bodies. Chapter 2 explores the effect of impurities in waste-derived zeolites ZSM-5 on their physicochemical properties and catalytic performance. Chapter 3 describes the influence of the hydrothermal treatments in combination with the impurities present in waste-derived zeolites ZSM-5. Chapter 4 presents a simple way to visualize pore architecture and its link with molecular transport and catalyst deactivation. Chapter 5 underlines the importance of the extrusion process and the binder effects as well as the influence of hydrothermal treatments. Chapter 6 elaborates on the use of pore-forming agents, such as wheat, corn, and potato starch, and the changes induced in the pore architecture and catalytic behavior of the shaped catalyst bodies. Chapter 7 discusses the impact of Mg location in zeolite-containing shaped catalyst bodies, while a link between Mg location, coke formation, and deactivation is presented. In Chapter 8, a summary of the research performed and the main findings of the Chapters are presented. Furthermore, some future perspectives for further research are given.