CTS-9520328 Ralph T. Yang University of Michigan ABSTRACT The research project seeks to develop two new sorbents for olefin-paraffin separation and to obtain a basic understanding of the pie-complexation mechanism for adsorption. Novel sorbents have been synthesized by dispersion of Ag(I) and Cu(I) cations on substrates that do not adsorb paraffins strongly. Preliminary experiments show enhanced olefin selectivity, capacity and rate of separation. Other adsorbents will be prepared using monolayer dispersion of Ag(I) and Cu(I) salts on various substrates. The later sorbents will be examined for acetylene separation. The study will include the effects of different anions, cations and substrates on the adsorption and separation behavior. Theoretical studies based on molecular orbital calculations will focus on the hydrocarbon-sorbent interactions. The effectiveness of the new sorbents for olefin-paraffin separations will be assessed by model simulation for pressure (or vacuum) swing adsorption. The results will have an impact on the development of energy efficient separation techniques for the chemical and petrochemical industries.
