Zinc cations incorporated in Silicalite-1 zeolite assist in anchoring atomically dispersed platinum catalyst for boosted and robust propane dehydrogenation

The utilization of Pt-based catalysts in the catalytic conversion of propane to propylene (PDH) remains pivotal in industrial processes. However, the scarcity of Pt and its high cost necessitates innovative strategies to enhance Pt dispersion and catalytic performance. In this study, we present an approach involving the in-situ incorporation of Zn cations into Silicalite-1 (S-1) zeolite through one-pot hydrothermal synthesis, which facilitates the anchoring of atomically dispersed Pt atoms. The synthesized 0.5Pt/Zn@S-1 catalyst exhibits the dehydrogenation performance of 25 % propane for approximately 34.2 % propane conversion and 95.1 % propylene selectivity (propylene turnover rate of 14.2 s⁻¹), coupled with robust stability of up to 60 h without distinct deactivation under a WHSV of 49.1 h⁻¹. Comprehensive characterizations reveal the formation of atomically dispersed Pt-Zn catalytic sites. The Pt atoms are incorporated with the Zn cations and dense silanol nests. This unique configuration facilitates a synergistic effect between Pt and Zn for dehydrogenation.