Influence of pseudo-boehmite binder modified dealuminated mordenite on Friedel–Crafts alkylation

The influence of pseudo-boehmite binder on the catalytic properties of dealuminated mordenite (MOR) catalyst for Friedel–Crafts alkylation was investigated. Solid-state ²⁷Al MAS NMR spectroscopy, temperature-programmed desorption of ammonia (NH₃-TPD), BET surface area measurement and catalyst particle mechanical strength were used to characterize the catalysts. It was observed that the addition of pseudo-boehmite binder results in improvement in terms of pore size distribution and its mechanical strength. Furthermore, the dredged pore path of MOR was not destroyed although the acid amount and acid type were adjusted properly when the modified MOR was calcinated. Among these catalysts studied, the catalyst bound with 10 wt% pseudo-boehmite binder showed the best catalytic performance in terms of yield and stability, which can be attributed to its maximum medium strong acid amount and its structural properties which is favorable for fast diffusion of products.