A novel approach for ultra-deep adsorptive desulfurization of diesel fuel over TiO2-CeO2/MCM-48 under ambient conditions

Significance A novel approach for ultra-deep desulfurization of diesel fuel was proposed, in which the original fuel was treated by light irradiation before adsorptive desulfurization (ADS) over the TiO2–CeO2/MCM-48 adsorbent under ambient conditions. A superior capacity of 95 cm3-fuel/g-adsorbent (32 times higher than that of the original fuel) was achieved. The promoting effect of light irradiation was likely through in situ peroxides generation in fuel under visible light/sunlight, which may oxidize organosulfur to form strongly adsorbed sulfones over the adsorbent.