A novel nickel catalyst derived from layered double hydroxides (LDHs) supported on fluid catalytic cracking catalyst residue (FC3R) for rosin hydrogenation

• A novel layered nickel catalyst using spent FCC catalyst as support was prepared.
• Spent FCC catalyst was used as Al3+ source for the synthesis of NiAl-layered precursor.
• The confinement effect in the LDHs main layer lead to small nickel particles and high Ni dispersion.
• The catalyst was more active and stable than the catalyst prepared by impregnation method.
• The conversion of abietic-type resin acid reached 99.02% under relatively mild condition (5 MPa, 190 °C).

A novel Ni-based catalyst (LP-Ni/FC3R) derived from a layered double hydroxides (LDHs) precursor was synthesized in situ and applied to rosin hydrogenation. Fluid catalytic cracking catalyst residue (FC3R) was used as a support material and sole Al3+ source. The effects of nickel loading, H2 pressure, temperature, and reaction time on catalytic performance were extensively investigated in a 2 m3 stainless steel autoclave. Maximum conversion of abietic-type resin acids reached 99.29% under relatively mild conditions with a nickel content of 8 wt.% and reaction time of 100 min. For comparison, a nickel catalyst (IM-Ni/FC3R) was prepared via incipient wetness impregnation. The textural, structural, and morphological properties of the two catalyst precursors were characterized by XRD, SEM, XPS, FT-IR, and H2-TPR/TPD. Results showed that Ni2+Al3+-containing LDHs (NiAl-LDHs) in the novel catalyst grow in situ at the surface and in the pores of FC3R. Compared with IM-Ni/FC3R, LP-Ni/FC3R shows a smaller crystallite size, higher Ni dispersion, and stronger interactions between Ni species and the FC3R support. LP-Ni/FC3R exhibited higher activity and better stability, which may be mainly ascribed to its unique NiAl-LDHs structures.

A Ni-based catalyst derived from LDHs precursor supported over FC3R is proved to be a highly efficient heterogeneous, reusable catalyst for hydrogenation of rosin under relatively mild conditions.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide