Efficient oxidative desulfurization using a mesoporous Zr-based MOF

NU-1000 was synthesized and used as a catalyst in oxidative desulfurization (ODS) of model fuel. The oxidation of dibenzothiophene was studied to explore the effect of different reaction parameters (temperature, time, catalyst and oxidant loading) on the ODS performance. Under the optimized conditions, the conversion of dibenzothiophene reached 100% within 180 min. The removal of other organosulfur compounds, 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene, 3-methylbenzothiophene, and benzothiophene, was also examined. It was found that the reactivity is highly related to the structure of the compounds. The NU-1000 exhibited excellent stability in the reaction system and can be reused for four cycles without obvious loss of activity. The high efficiency and robustness render NU-1000 promising potential in the application of deep desulfurization of fuels. © 2019 Elsevier B.V.