Ultrasonic-assisted synthesis of Ni/ZSM-5 catalyst for efficient bio-jet fuel production via atmospheric hydrotreatment of processed palm oil
摘要
The increasing demand for sustainable aviation fuel requires efficient catalytic processes to convert renewable feedstocks into bio-jet fuel. However, developing cost-effective catalysts with high activity and stability for hydrotreatment remains a challenge. This study aims to synthesize a highly active Ni/ZSM-5 catalyst using ultrasonic-assisted impregnation for the conversion of processed palm oil into bio-jet fuel under atmospheric conditions. The catalyst was characterized using XRD, FT-IR, BET surface area analysis, NH3-TPD, XPS, and SEM–EDX to evaluate its structural and physicochemical properties. Catalytic performance was tested in different catalyst bed configurations. Results confirmed well-dispersed Ni species on ZSM-5, with a surface area of 148.1 m2/g, crystallinity of 73.55%, and total acidity of 2.331 mmol/g. The double-bed system produced 51.71% bio-jet fuel with 86.21% selectivity and an ultra-low freezing point of − 59.41 °C. The catalyst also remained stable after three reuse cycles. Ultrasonic-assisted synthesis offers a simple, scalable strategy for designing efficient Ni-based catalysts for sustainable aviation fuel production.
Graphical abstract