Adsorptive removal of dibenzothiophene (DBT) and 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene (DMDBT) from model diesel fuel with 20 ppmw total concentration of sulfur was investigated on polymer-derived carbons with incorporated heteroatoms of oxygen, sulfur and phosphorus. The materials before and after exposure to model diesel fuel were characterized using adsorption of nitrogen, thermal analysis, potentiometric titration, XPS and elemental analysis. The selectivities for DBT and DMDBT adsorption were calculated with reference to naphthalene. The results indicated that the presence of phosphorus, especially in the form of pyrophosphates and P2O5, increases the capacity and selectivity for removal of dibenzothiophenes. It also affects the adsorption mechanism. Phosphorus suppresses oxidation reactions of DBT and DMDBT. Owing to a possible location of bulky phosphorus groups in pore with sizes between 1 and 3 nm thiophenic molecules are strongly adsorbed there via dispersive forces. Acidic environment also enhances adsorption via acid–base interactions. Physical adsorption mechanism and stability of surface make these carbons attractive candidates for thermal regeneration.
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