Enhancing hydrogen sulphide removal efficiency: A DFT study on selected functionalized graphene-based materials

Abstract

In response to the escalating demand for cleaner energy sources, this study investigates the potential of carefully selected functionalized graphene-based materials for enhancing hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) removal in fuel streams, utilizing semi-empirical and density functional theory (DFT) calculations for molecular-level insights. A particular focus is placed on aliphatic methyl (-CH), alcohol (-COH), carboxylate (-COO), carbonyl (-CO), and acid (-COOH) -functionalized graphene, aiming to bridge gaps between desulphurization methods and graphene applications, specifically targeting H₂S removal. Through extensive computational analyses, the research unravels the intricate interactions between chosen functionalized graphene materials and sulfur compounds like H₂S, emphasizing mechanisms contributing to improved desulphurization efficiency. Our study's analysis highlights the superior performance of carboxylate (-COO)-functionalized graphene, mainly through dissociative adsorption mechanisms. The study systematically evaluates the influence of selected functional groups on adsorption activity, emphasizing the significance of dissociation. Overall, this research advances desulphurization strategies and underscores the potential of functionalized graphene in sustainable energy solutions.