Pore plugging effects on the performance of ZSM-5 catalyst in MTP reaction using a discrete model

Abstract Coke is an important medium for connecting reaction and regeneration of the methanol to propylene process on the ZSM-5 catalyst. Coke grows in the meso and macro pores, it gradually worsens the diffusion inside the catalyst particle. Furthermore, pore plugging is inevitable which causes the deactivation of ZSM-5 catalyst. However, current continuum model cannot reflect the changes in pore structure with clear physical concepts. A discrete model that is verified by the carbon deposition experiments is introduced to indicate the behavior of pore plugging effects. Results show that the pore plugging has a significant effect on the performance of the catalyst. The time varying profile of effectiveness factor is obtained, indicating a regular reduction with the increase of the pore plugging effect. Spatial distributions of pore size that would significantly enhance the plugging effect are also identified.