Simultaneous nitric oxide and toluene reduction over Pt-based catalyst

This research investigates the simultaneous reduction of nitric oxide (NOx) and toluene using Pt-based catalysts, aiming at applications in small-scale industrial environmental processes. Catalysts with varying Pt loadings from 0.01 to 3 % were synthesized through wet impregnation, and their dispersion was assessed across several characterizations, revealing effective Pt dispersion even at loadings above 1 %. Under conditions of high toluene feed, the 3 % Pt-loaded catalyst emerged as the most efficient, achieving significant NOx and toluene conversion rates. The performance of this catalyst was thoroughly examined under various operational parameters including NO, toluene, O₂ concentrations, gas hourly space velocity (GHSV) and reaction temperature. A short-stress test further underscored its effectiveness, with NOx and toluene conversions reaching 89.7 % and 97.6 %, respectively. Additionally, a preliminary process simulation of the NOx reduction by toluene indicated an energy efficiency improvement of over 8 % compared to conventional RCO and de-NOx processes. The findings suggest the catalyst's potential for NOx reduction in industrial settings, utilizing toluene present in flue gas without the need for additional commercial reducing agents.