Microwave-assisted green synthesis of uniform Ru nanoparticles supported on non-functional carbon nanotubes for cinnamaldehyde hydrogenation

Uniformly dispersed ruthenium nanoparticles supported on non-functional carbon nanotubes (CNT) have been successfully synthesized by using a facile and solvent-free microwave-assisted thermolytic method with dodecacarbonyltriruthenium as the precursor. The results show that 2–4 nm sized spheres of Ru nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed and supported on non-functional CNT by several minutes' exposure to microwave irradiation without solvent. The Ru/CNT catalysts show the desired conversion of about 80% and selectivity to hydrocinnamaldehyde of about 72% in the selective hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde, where the catalytic performance has been found to depend on both the Ru loading and the surface properties of CNT.

Uniformly dispersed 2–4 nm ruthenium nano-particles supported on non-functional carbon nanotubes have been prepared by a solvent-free microwave thermolytic method, and showed the desired conversion and selectivity in the selective hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde, where the catalytic performance has been found to depend on both the Ru loading and the surface properties of carbon nanotubes.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► A solvent-free microwave-assisted thermolytic method was used to prepare Ru/CNT.
► Uniformly and highly dispersed Ru nanoparticles were formed on non-functional CNT.
► Larger Ru nanoparticles were formed on functional CNT.
► Ru/CNT showed desired activity and selectivity in cinnamaldehyde hydrogenation.