Toward Superior Product Distribution: Ga-Loaded over Etched Attapulgite as an Efficient Catalyst for Olefin Aromatization

Although olefin aromatization reactions offer a potential route for the high-value utilization of Fischer–Tropsch naphtha, their industrial implementation is hindered by challenges such as coke-induced deactivation and the formation of large amounts of low-value alkane by-products. In this work, a series of Ga(x%)-EATP-550 catalysts were prepared via equal-volume impregnation of Ga onto an acid-etched attapulgite (EATP) support, followed by calcination at 550 °C. The catalysts were evaluated for the aromatization of olefins. The results show that the reaction proceeds mainly through direct dehydrogenative aromatization, yielding approximately 65% aromatics, while generating short-chain olefins (about 20% yield) as the main by-products. This system effectively suppresses the formation of long-chain aromatics and low-value alkanes, presenting a promising technical pathway for upgrading Fischer–Tropsch naphtha.