Ultrasound Assisted Oxidative Desulfurization of JP-8 Fuel

The Army has identified solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) power systems as a potential solution to a variety of power needs ranging from roughly 0.1 - 100 kW. Reformed JP-8, the Army logistics fuel, can be used as the feed, but the fuel sulfur content must first be reduced to 10 ppm. We plan to test a novel ultrasonic slurry reactor as part of a compact desulfurization process for treatment of sulfur-rich (up to 3,000 ppm) jet fuel. Sulfur compounds in the fuel will be oxidized to forms which permit subsequent removal. Activated carbon will be used as a heterogeneous catalyst, and the ultrasound will disperse micron-sized water droplets carrying hydrogen peroxide (the proposed oxidant) into the jet fuel. The ultrasonic slurry reactor is expected to have a number of advantages, including fast mass transfer and oxidation rates, reduced hydrogen peroxide consumption, and high selectivity to sulfur compounds. Our extensive testing and analysis of similar systems encourages pursuit of this innovative approach. Specific tasks planned for this Phase I effort include proving the feasibility of the slurry reactor for sulfur oxidation, demonstrating the use of activated carbon to remove sulfur compounds post-oxidation, and identifying potential life-time issues with the ultrasonic horn.