Efficient conversion of propane in a microchannel reactor at ambient conditions

Abstract

The oxidative dehydrogenation of propane, primarily sourced from shale gas, holds promise in meeting the surging global demand for propylene. However, this process necessitates high operating temperatures, which amplifies safety concerns in its application due to the use of mixed propane and oxygen. Moreover, these elevated temperatures may heighten the risk of overoxidation, leading to carbon dioxide formation. Here we introduce a microchannel reaction system designed for the oxidative dehydrogenation of propane within an aqueous environment, enabling highly selective and active propylene production at room temperature and ambient pressure with mitigated safety risks. A propylene selectivity of over 92% and production rate of 19.57 mmol mCu−2 h−1 are simultaneously achieved. This exceptional performance stems from the in situ creation of a highly active, oxygen-containing Cu catalytic surface for propane activation, and the enhanced propane transfer via an enlarged gas-liquid interfacial area and a reduced diffusion path by establishing a gas-liquid Taylor flow using a custom-made T-junction microdevice. This microchannel reaction system offers an appealing approach to accelerate gas-liquid-solid reactions limited by the solubility of gaseous reactant.

Catalyst development for O2-assisted oxidative dehydrogenation of propane to propylene

“…Therefore, in the future, it is demanded to develop a novel catalyst, which can achieve high selectivity towards propylene at high propane conversion rates. 144,145…”

Selective C–H Bond Activation in Propane with Molecular Oxygen over Cu(I)-ZSM-5 at Ambient Conditions

“…Recently, we reported the surprising discovery of selective activation of light alkanes at room temperature with O 2 on metallic Cu in acidic aqueous solutions, leading to the production of alkenes and oxygenates . To improve the inefficient mass transfer of propane in the aqueous solution due to its low solubility, a microfluidic reaction system with a Cu microtube was employed, serving as both the catalyst and microchannel reactor . Oxidation of metallic Cu by O 2 is the main side reaction, which is followed by the dissolution of Cu oxides in the aqueous solution.…”

“…32 To improve the inefficient mass transfer of propane in the aqueous solution due to its low solubility, a microfluidic reaction system with a Cu microtube was employed, serving as both the catalyst and microchannel reactor. 33 Oxidation of metallic Cu by O 2 is the main side reaction, which is followed by the dissolution of Cu oxides in the aqueous solution. The oxidation and dissolution of Cu continuously strip away the Cu surface during the reaction, making the identification of active species mediating the C−H bond scission challenging.…”