Structural and Functional Assessment of Sm₂CoMnO₆ Nanoceramics for Efficient and Selective Aerobic Oxidative Desulfurization of Petroleum

In this study, nanostructured Sm₂CoMnO₆ was synthesized and structurally characterized as a robust nanoceramic material for application in the efficient and selective aerobic oxidative desulfurization (AODS) of petroleum-based fuels. The crystalline perovskite phase of Sm₂CoMnO₆ was confirmed via XRD and FTIR analyses, indicating strong M–O lattice bonds and structural stability under thermal stress. The nanoceramic exhibited a mesoporous surface morphology with high surface area and uniform pore distribution, enabling effective mass transfer of sulfur compounds and oxygen. AODS reactions were performed using atmospheric oxygen as a green oxidant under moderate temperatures, targeting refractory sulfur species such as dibenzothiophene (DBT) and benzothiophene (BT). The desulfurization efficiency was evaluated under variable operational parameters including temperature, oxygen flow rate, and material dosage. The performance of Sm₂CoMnO₆ was benchmarked against cerium-promoted tungsten-based catalysts, revealing comparable or superior sulfur removal efficiency (up to 99%) without the need for noble metals or harsh reaction conditions. The combination of structural stability, accessible active surface, and compatibility with molecular oxygen makes Sm₂CoMnO₆ nanoceramics a promising material for sustainable and selective petroleum desulfurization processes.