Development of microwave assisted oxidative desulfurization of petroleum oils: A review

This paper provides a general overview of microwave applications in petroleum oxidative desulfurization (ODS). It was concluded that, as compared with conventional heating technologies, milder reaction conditions could be used and higher ODS rate could be achieved under microwave treatment. It was also found that microwave power level, treatment time, temperature, oxidizing agent dosage, microwave equipment and catalyst are the key operating factors influencing the ODS efficiency. A best removal rate of 96% achieved for diesel. The main challenges are developing high efficiency, novel techniques and apparatuses to remove sulfur from oils in a commercial process.