Development of a low temperature light paraffin isomerization catalysts with improved resistance to water and sulphur by combinatorial methods

By means of combinatorial techniques (high-throughput catalyst preparation and testing systems, and a genetic algorithm (GA)), a search of new more tioresistant catalysts for low temperature isomerization of light paraffins has been conducted. After three evolving cycles catalysts have been found that not only are active and selective but also are more resistant to deactivation by water and sulphur than the corresponding conventional ones. The results have been reproduced in a pilot plant and the stability is shown.