Researchers at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) have developed a Pt-based high-entropy-alloy (HEA) catalyst that greatly enhances the efficiency of propane dehydrogenation (PDH). The method could increase propylene's global production capacity, which is a key feedstock in the chemical industry.
While traditional Pt-based catalysts are effective in propylene production, they can reduce selectivity and stability while causing side reactions during propane dehydrogenation. Propane dehydrogenation is a critical step in propylene production which requires high temperatures that often cause catalyst deactivation.
Due to the harsh conditions and performance required during propane dehydrogenation, the search for a catalyst that maintains high performance has proved difficult. One emerging contender, high-entropy alloys (HEAs), has thus far been limited by their time-consuming and labor-intensive r&d approaches.
To address this, the team of researchers developed a method that uses a tube furnace to synthesize HEA nanoparticles with stable structures and improved stability in less than one second. Next, the team designed and fabricated HEA catalysts guided by alloying effects which allow them to manipulate the geometric and electronic properties of the catalyst.
By leveraging the alloying effects, the team fabricated a PtCuSnAuPd/SiO₂ HEA catalyst which demonstrated excellent performance during propane dehydrogenation. During testing, the catalyst demonstrated excellent performance compared to other multimetallic alloys and propylene selectivity rates over 97%
The novel design concept developed provides a new approach for catalyst design and development which could have widespread applications in propylene production as well as countless other reactions.