Conversion of levulinic acid to BTX over different zeolite catalysts

Abstract Zeolites having a different pore size, pore geometry and acidity (small pore FER, medium pore ZSM-5, and large pore Y, BEA and MOR) were investigated for the conversion of levulinic acid (LA) to aromatics (BTX). Product selectivity was found to depend on pore size and radius of the zeolites. In addition to pore size, internal pore space, and steric hindrance play a determining role in aromatics production. ZSM-5 with moderate internal pore space and steric hindrance gave the highest BTX yield of 31% and least amount of coke. The high aromatic yield of ZSM-5 has been attributed to its strong acidity for cracking and suitable pore structure for aromatization.