Use of delaminated hectorites as supports of copper catalysts for the hydrogenolysis of glycerol to 1,2-propanediol

Delaminated hectorites were used as supports of copper catalysts for the hydrogenolysis of glycerol. Catalytic results were compared with those obtained for copper catalysts prepared with other supports: hectorites, synthesized by conventional heating and with microwaves, and silicate-bearing hectorite. Copper was introduced by impregnation, solids blend with ultrasounds, and ion-exchange methods. Catalytic tests were carried out in liquid phase at 40 bar, 473 K and stirring of 400 rpm. The selectivity to 1,2-propanediol was very high for all catalysts (>90%). The highest conversion (61% after 8 h of reaction) was obtained for a delaminated hectorite impregnated with 40 wt.% of copper. This was related to the highest surface area of this delaminated hectorite together with its lower hydrophilic character (lower C.E.C.), which made possible to best control copper agglomeration. In fact, copper dispersion increased during reaction for this catalyst.

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► Copper catalyst supported in delaminated mesoporous hectorites.
► Higher conversions were obtained when using delaminated supports.
► Low time of hydrothermal treatment provided higher area in delaminated hectorite.
► Delaminated hectorites as support controls copper agglomeration during reaction.