Construction of imidazole-based ionic liquid modified MoO3-x for enhancing photocatalytic oxidation desulfurization in diesel

Development of clean desulfurization process that combines both efficient and environmentally friendly remains a significant challenge for diesel production. The photocatalytic oxidation desulfurization technology is regarded as a promising process depending on the superior electron transfer and visible light utilization of photocatalyst. Herein, the nonstoichiometry MoO 3-x with outstanding photoresponse ability is prepared and modified by imidazole-based ionic liquid [C 12 mim]Cl to upgrade electronic structure. The interface H-bonding between MoO 3-x and [C 12 mim]Cl regard as electronic transfer channel and the recombination of e − -h + pairs is effectively inhibited with the modification of [C 12 mim]Cl. Deep desulfurization rate of 96.6% can be reached in 60 min and the MoO 3-x /[C 12 mim]Cl (MoC 12 ) photocatalyst demonstrated outstanding cyclic stability within seven cycles in an extraction coupled photocatalytic oxidation desulfurization (ECPODS) system. The study provides a new perspective on enhancing photocatalytic desulfurization through defect engineering and surface modification. The MoO 3-x /[C 12 mim]Cl photocatalyst with H-bonding interface coupling was prepared and the recombination of photo-generated electrons and holes is effectively suppressed. Enhanced by oxygen vacancy and ionic liquid modification, DBT was effectively converted to DBTO 2 in a short period of time under visible light in an extraction coupled photocatalytic oxidation desulfurization (ECPODS) system. • Imidazole based ionic liquid [C 12 mim]Cl is used in the surface modification of MoO 3-x • The positive effect of surface OV on photocatalytic desulfurization is studied • The formation of H bond enhances interface coupling as electron transfer channel • •The modification of imidazole ionic liquid effectively enhances the H 2 O 2 activation