Influence of precursor of MgO and preparation conditions on the catalytic dehydrogenation of iso-propanol over CuO/MgO catalysts

0.2CuO/MgO solids prepared by impregnation method and calcined at 450 °C. The effects of preparation conditions and precursor of the support on the structure, surface and catalytic properties of the catalysts were investigated by using XRD, N2-adsorption at −196 °C and catalytic conversion of isopropyl alcohol at 75–275 °C using a flow technique. The results revealed that the investigated solids consisted of nano-sized MgO as a major phase besides CuO and trace amount of Cu2O. The precursor of MgO (hydroxide or carbonate) affects the thermal properties of CuO/MgO system. The SBET of CuO/MgO system calcined at 450 °C increases with using carbonate precursor of MgO or using proper preparation method of magnesium hydroxide. Different investigated solids behave mainly as a dehydrogenation catalyst yielding acetone. Methyl iso-butyl ketone (MIBK) product was detected in catalytic conversion of isopropyl alcohol via aldol condensation mechanism. Various catalytic activities, selectivities and stabilities are affected by method of preparation and the precursor of the support.