Synthesis and Characterization of H_5PV_2Mo_(10)O40@Cu3(BTC)2 and Its Use as a Heterogeneous Catalyst for Oxidative Desulfurization: A Comprehensive Chemistry Laboratory Experiment

摘要

In this laboratory experiment, the synthesis and characterization of H_5PV_2Mo_(10)O40@Cu3(BTC)2 (denoted as NENU-9, H3BTC = 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid) and its application in fuel desulfurization were performed. This experiment is designed for advanced undergraduate students majoring in chemistry. In this experiment, students experience the universal procedures of solution syntheses, get knowledge of several modern instrumental techniques (PXRD, FTIR, SEM, and GC) widely utilized in chemical research, and learn the general procedure of heterogeneous catalytic reaction. Upon the completion of the experiment, not only was students' teamwork spirit cultivated by data-sharing and discussion in their assigned group, but also their environmental protection awareness was stimulated by performing a catalytic oxidative desulfurization reaction, a potential technology that may reach the goal of reducing sulfur oxide emissions. Moreover, students' basic chemistry knowledge (inorganic, coordination, organic, and analytical chemistry) was consolidated by using it to analyze experimental phenomena and results.