To achieve the optimum utilization of naphtha resource

high efficient separation methods need to be explored for naphtha. In this review

the adsorption mechanism and recent technology for n-alkanes separation are briefly discussed. New types of adsorbents

including metal organic frameworks (MOFs)

zeolite imidazole frameworks (ZIFs)

carbon molecular sieve (CMS) and hollow zeolite molecular sieve

are introduced. Besides

the separation performance and separation mechanism of new adsorbents for n-alkanes separation are discussed. The feasibilities of new adsorbents

membrane separation technology and adsorption-membrane separation coupling technology for the separation of n-/iso-alkanes are also discussed. Novel technologies for n-alkanes separation from naphtha are proposed

which may offer new approaches for the efficient utilization of naphtha resource.