ABSTRACT CTS-9406718 Gustavo Larsen This is an investigation of the use of sulfated zirconia supported on zeolites as solid superacid catalysts. Zeolite-supported, sulfated, zirconia clusters are prepared and their physical form and catalytic activity studied. An objective is to produce catalysts with longer lifetimes than bulk sulfated zirconia. Test reactions include isomerization of n-butane to isobutane, isomerization of 2-methyl-2 pentene, and synthesis of ethyl tert-butyl ether. Characterization techniques used include X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray absorption, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Environmental concerns have led to a large increase in the demand for oxygenates as gasoline additives. At the same time, environmental and occupational-health concerns are forcing a phase-out of the fluid superacid catalysts used to make these materials. This study looks at a solid superacid that could replace these dangerous fluid catalysts. A portion of the effort also addresses the use of ethanol in motor fuel. ***
