Catalytic behavior of biosorbents supported in zeolites

Abstract

The catalytic oxidation of 1,2-dichlorobenzene at 350 oC was investigated over a robust biosorption system consisting of a bacterial biofilm supported on NaY or NaX zeolites. The batch method has been employed using chromium concentrations in solution ranging from 50 to 250 mgCr/L. The results showed that the maximum removal efficiency was 20% for Cr in both systems based in NaY or NaX. The bacterial biofilm, Arthrobacter viscosus, supported on the zeolite reduces Cr(VI) to Cr(III). The Cr(III) is retained in the zeolite by ion exchange. The new biosorvents catalysts were characterized by spectroscopic methods (FTIR and ICP-AES), surface analysis (DRX) and thermal analysis (TGA). The various techniques of characterization used show that this biosorption process does not modify the morphology and structure of the FAUzeolites. These catalysts, Cr/FAU, prepared through this new procedure present good activity and selectivity for dichlorobenzene oxidation in wet air. The Cr50-Y was selected as the most active, selective and stable catalyst for oxidation of 1,2 dichlorobenzene in wet air.