Thin film catalysts for hydrodesulfurization

The ability to prepare active hydrodesulfurization (HDS) catalysts by reactive sputtering onto oxide surfaces has been demonstrated. In our research the ability to produce MoS₂-based and `reduced' Mo sulfides (Chevrel phases) has permitted characterization of the catalyst-support (substrate) interface. A mechanism for the formation of the active phases has been suggested, and the ability to form the desired catalysts at low temperatures (necessary for high-surface supports) has been demonstrated. The supported catalysts have been shown to have comparable activity to the pure phases. This new preparation technique offers the potential for producing oriented films which could be useful in more fundamental studies of HDS reaction mechanisms.