Synthesis, Characterization, and Catalytic Cracking Efficiency of Zeolite Y Modified with Lanthanum Ions

International Journal of Chemistry | Vol. 2, No. 1, January 2011 | pp. 10–17

DOI: 10.46882/2011/IJC/000026

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: Synthesis, Characterization, and Catalytic Cracking Efficiency of Zeolite Y Modified with Lanthanum Ions

Names of Authors: O. D. Tarfa¹, S. M. Ibrahim¹*

Authors’ Affiliations:
¹Department of Industrial Chemistry, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria.

Abstract: Fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) catalysts require high hydrothermal stability and structural acidity to optimize the conversion of heavy gas oils into valuable light olefin fractions. This study reports the synthesis and structural modification of Zeolite Y through ion exchange with varying concentrations of lanthanum (La³⁺) ions (1.0% to 5.0% by weight). The parent sodium-Zeolite Y matrix was synthesized hydrothermally from local aluminosilicate precursors, followed by ammonium exchange and subsequent calcination to generate the protonated form (H-Y). Lanthanum modification was executed via wet impregnation using lanthanum nitrate solutions. Structural parameters were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and temperature-programmed desorption of ammonia (NH₃-TPD). XRD metrics confirmed that the structural framework of the faujasite lattice remained intact post-lanthanum loading, with crystallinity values preserved above 92%. NH₃-TPD profiles revealed that La³⁺ integration increased the density of strong Brønsted acid sites by stabilizing the framework aluminum atoms against de-alumination. Catalytic cracking efficiency was evaluated in a micro-activity test reactor at 520°C using standard gas oil feedstocks. The 3% La-modified Zeolite Y catalyst achieved a 74.2% total conversion efficiency, with reduced coke formation profiles compared to unmodified H-Y matrices.

Keywords: Zeolite Y; Lanthanum; Fluid catalytic cracking; Brønsted acidity; Hydrothermal stability; Petrochemistry

Manuscript Timeline: Received: October 20, 2010; Revised: November 28, 2010; Accepted: December 12, 2010; Published: January 11, 2011.

Citation: Tarfa, O. D., & Ibrahim, S. M. (2011). Synthesis, Characterization, and Catalytic Cracking Efficiency of Zeolite Y Modified with Lanthanum Ions. International Journal of Chemistry, 2(1), 10–17.

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