Binary and ternary transition-metal phosphides as HDN catalysts

Transition-metal phosphides (Co2P, Ni2P, MoP, WP, CoMoP, NiMOP) were prepar ed by reducing metal oxide/phosphate precursors in a flow of H-2. The solid s obtained were tested in the hydrodenitrogenation of o-propylaniline at 64 3 K and 3 MPa. All the catalysts were active, with product selectivities re sembling those of sulfidic catalysts. The influence of H2S on the activity and selectivities was tested and is discussed with regard to a possible sur face modification. Based on the surface area of each catalyst, we estimated the relative intrinsic activities of the different phosphides. According t o this estimation, MOP was intrinsically the most active catalyst. (C) 2001 Academic Press.