Preparation of cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-ene by cis-selective semi-hydrogenation of perfluoro-2-butyne

Cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-ene has a zero ozone depletion potential (ODP), low global warming potential (GWP) and non-flammable properties, so it is believed to be a potential foam expansion agent. For the synthetic process of cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-ene, the process catalysts are the key factors for its yield and cost. In this paper, the catalysts of palladium attached to porous aluminum fluoride, to active carbon, to Al2O3, and the blends of palladium and bismuth to AlF3 used to prepare cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-ene by cis-selective semi-hydrogenation of perfluoro-2-butyne were investigated. The performance of above-mentioned catalysts was compared in reaction process. The experimental results indicate that the additive of bismuth to palladium catalyst is useful for improving the activity and selectivity compared to Pd/C and Pd/Al2O3. The role of bismuth in the synthetic process is discussed based on the experimental results and theory analysis.

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► The Pd-based catalysts in the synthetic process of cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-ene are investigated.
► The additive of Bi to Pd-based catalyst can improve the activity and selectivity of Pd/C and Pd/Al2O3 in the synthesis of cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-ene.
► The role of Bi in catalytic process is discussed based on the experimental results and theory analysis.