Formation and depletion or NO2 during the catalytic decomposition of NO over Cu/ZSM-5 catalyst

The aim of this study was to investigate the catalytic decomposition of NO over Cu/ZSM-5 catalyst (2NO --> N-2 + O-2). During this reaction a simultaneous oxidation of NO with oxygen produced by the reaction took place (2NO + O-2 --> 2NO(2)). Therefore, some experiments were carried out in the same reactor but without the catalyst to examine the kinetics of NO oxidation. Both reactions were performed in tubular flow reactor operated at atmospheric pressure. Exit fraction of NO2 depended on reaction conditions. Some reaction variables, such as feed rate, reaction composition, mass of catalyst and temperature were varied over wide ranges. Experimental data were correlated and the applicability of kinetic models of both reactions was considered. The effect of reaction conditions on product distribution was discussed.