Oxidation of mercaptans in light oil sweetening by cobalt(II) phthalocyanine-hydrotalcite catalysts

Three Mg-Al hydrotalcites containing cobalt(II) phthalocyanine were prepared by direct synthesis, anion exchange and structure reconstruction. Differences in physicochemical properties and mechanical resistance were observed. The results of the mercaptan oxidation reaction were compared to those obtained with an industrial non-basic impregnated active charcoal. An important activity difference in favor of the prepared catalysts was obtained, confirming that the adequate tuning of basic and oxidant properties lead to a promising catalyst. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.