DTBPS in Hydrodesulfurization (HDS) Catalysts: Activation and Performance Enhancement

Unlocking the Potential of Di-tert-butyl Disulfide Phosphate (DTBPS) in HDS Catalysts

Abstract

Di-tert-butyl disulfide phosphate (DTBPS) is an effective organic sulfurizing agent widely used in the activation and modification of hydrodesulfurization (HDS) catalysts. HDS is a crucial refinery process aimed at removing sulfur compounds from petroleum products like diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel, reducing SOx emissions and protecting downstream equipment. DTBPS plays a key role in transforming metal oxides (MoO₃, WO₃, Co₃O₄, NiO) into their active sulfide forms (MoS₂, WS₂, CoMoS, NiMoS), enhancing catalytic efficiency. Additionally, DTBPS helps optimize the catalyst structure, improve metal dispersion, and increase durability, making it a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional sulfiding agents like H₂S. This paper explores the mechanism, benefits, and industrial significance of DTBPS in HDS catalyst preparation.

Keywords

DTBPS, Hydrodesulfurization, HDS Catalyst, Catalyst Sulfiding, MoS₂, WS₂, CoMoS, NiMoS, Refinery Process, Sulfur Removal, Petroleum Industry

1. What is Hydrodesulfurization (HDS)?

Hydrodesulfurization (HDS) is a critical petroleum refining process designed to eliminate sulfur compounds from fossil fuels, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and preventing catalyst poisoning in downstream applications (such as catalytic cracking and fuel cells).

HDS Catalyst Composition

HDS catalysts are typically composed of active metal sites (Mo, W, Co, Ni) supported on γ-Al₂O₃. These metals initially exist in an oxidized state (MoO₃, WO₃, Co₃O₄, NiO) and require sulfiding treatment to become active.

2. The Role of DTBPS in HDS Catalyst Activation

(1) DTBPS as a Sulfiding Agent

Fresh HDS catalysts are initially in their oxidized state and must be converted into their active sulfide form before they can effectively remove sulfur from fuel. DTBPS acts as a controlled sulfur donor, facilitating the transformation:

✅ Highly efficient sulfiding capability ensures the rapid activation of Mo, W, Co, and Ni catalysts.

✅ Safer alternative to traditional sulfiding agents (e.g., H₂S), reducing operational hazards.

(2) DTBPS as a Catalyst Modifier

Beyond sulfiding, DTBPS can enhance catalyst performance in several ways:

• Optimizing MoS₂/WS₂ layer structures, improving dispersion and catalytic activity.

• Enhancing CoMoS/NiMoS phase formation, increasing selectivity and efficiency.

• Preventing catalyst sintering, ensuring longer operational lifetimes.

3. Industrial Advantages of DTBPS in HDS Catalysts

✅ Strong sulfiding capability – Efficiently activates metal catalysts for maximum HDS performance.

✅ Safe and convenient handling – Unlike H₂S gas, DTBPS is a liquid, making it easier and safer to use.

✅ Improved catalyst stability – Helps maintain an optimal structure for prolonged activity.

✅ Lower environmental impact – Controlled sulfur release reduces emissions and pollution.

4. Conclusion

DTBPS serves as both a sulfiding agent and a performance enhancer in HDS catalysts. It ensures efficient catalyst activation, improves catalyst structure, and offers a safer, more sustainable alternative to conventional sulfiding agents. As refinery regulations tighten, DTBPS is becoming an increasingly valuable tool in the quest for cleaner fuel production.

For further insights into DTBPS applications in HDS catalyst sulfiding, industry research and case studies are recommended.