Synthesis and Characterization of a ZrO 2 /AC Composite as a Novel Adsorbent for Dibenzothiophene

Zirconium dioxide was impregnated into a commercial activated carbon (AC) by hydrothermal treatment employing an aqueous ZrOCl 2 •8H 2 O solution. The ZrO 2 /AC composites thus prepared were tested as adsorbents for dibenzothiophene (DBT) from a model diesel fuel. In comparison to the pure AC, impregnation of ZrO 2 was found to lead to a ca. 17% increase in the adsorption capacity. The optimal ZrO 2 loading and hydrothermal pH were determined as 0.1 mmol/g and 7, respectively. The spent adsorbents were regenerated by toluene washing, with the ZrO 2 /AC composite exhibiting a higher adsorptive capacity than pure AC even after three such recycles. The ZrO 2 /AC composite was also characterized by the physical adsorption of nitrogen and Boehm titrations. The results indicated that surface acidic sites on the impregnated ZrO 2 may play an important role in the improved desulphurization performance of the composite.