Efficiency of ethanol conversion induced by controlled modification of pore structure and acidic properties of alumina catalysts

Bimodal porous alumina catalysts with both continuous macropores and mesopores were prepared using a dual soft template method. The addition of decahydronaphthalene as emulsifier agent successfully contributed to the formation of macropores. The effectiveness of macropore insertion was evaluated in the model reaction of ethanol dehydration at 300 °C. Judging from the results obtained by acidity measurements using temperature programmed desorption of ammonia and the performance of these catalysts in the ethanol dehydration, the introduction of macropores in the catalyst structure enhanced the ethanol conversion.

Catalytic results of ethanol dehydration of alumina samples at 300 °C, showing that the conversion passes through a minimum that is related to a combination of adequate porosity and acidity of the catalyst.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (108 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Bimodal porous alumina catalysts with both continuous macropores and mesopores.
► Evaluation of the effectiveness of macropore insertion.
► Macropores in the catalyst structure enhanced ethanol conversion.
► Emulsifier agent played a negative role in the generation of alumina samples acidity.