Beta-MCM-41 micro-mesoporous catalysts in the hydroisomerization of n-heptane: Definition of an indexed isomerization factor as a performance descriptor

Beta-MCM-41(BM) composites consisting of Beta zeolite grown on MCM-41 type mesoporous structure were prepared. The composite materials were used as a support for stabilization of Pt. The Pt containing catalysts (Pt/HBM) were applied in n-heptane hydroisomerization reaction. The Pt/HBM catalysts showed higher n-heptane conversion and higher selectivity to isoheptanes in comparison to pure Beta and MCM-41. The results were explained by the accelerated diffusion of isoheptanes in the Pt/HBM composites, and the high concentration of acid sites with a moderate strength in the composites, which reduced the cracking of reactants and products. Based on the experimental results, an indexed isomerization factor (IIF) was deduced, which is correlated with the physical properties of the supports. The results indicated that the isoheptane yield of the catalysts is strongly dependent on the support (IIF). The general IIF descriptor for predicting the isomerization performance of support materials can provide precise guidance for the design of new micro-mesoporous composites.