Monomolecular Activation of Alkanes over 10 and 12-MR Zeolites: Range of Validity and Catalytic Consequences

By limiting Silicalite acid sites to 0.25 Al/unit cell, bimolecular reactions, including hydride transfer from feed alkanes to light alkene products can be suppressed, extending range for monomolecular cracking to 170 kPa and > 30%  conversion.   While selectivities were similar over FER, MTT, TON and MFI, more oligomerization, aromatization and coking were observed over BEA and FAU.