Efficient adsorption desulfurization via encapsulation of CeO₂ nanoparticles in hierarchical porous HKUST-1

Thiophene-like sulfides present in fuel oil release sulfur oxides (SO_x) during combustion, which pose significant risks for both environmental sustainability and public health. Adsorption desulfurization (ADS) has garnered considerable attention because of its mild operating conditions, low production costs, and minimal impact on the octane number of fuels. Metal-organic frameworks used as desulfurizing adsorbents provide several advantages, including a high specific surface area and easily adjustable structures. Here, we synthesized the micro/mesoporous adsorbent CeO₂@HP-HKUST-1 (CeO₂@Hierarchical Porous-Hong Kong University of Science and Technology-1) through the hybridization of salicylic acid (SA) using a solvothermal method. We assessed the adsorption performance ofCeO₂@HP- HKUST-1_{_}1.5for benzothiophene and thiophene through batch and breakthrough adsorption experiments. The adsorption capacities for thiophene and benzothiophene were measured at 21.2 mg S/g and 35.3 mg S/g, respectively. Remarkably, in competitive toluene experiments, the adsorption capacity for benzothiophene remained significant at 28.9 mg S/g, due to enhanced Ce-S bonding interactions and the exposure of unsaturated metal centers of Cu. Additionally, regeneration experiments demonstrated that CeO₂@HP-HKUST-1 retained excellent adsorption capacities after four cycles. These findings highlight the potential of CeO₂@HP-HKUST-1 as an effective adsorbent for desulfurization applications.