Catalytic decomposition of 4-phenoxyphenol to aromatics over palladium catalysts supported on activated carbon aerogel bearing sulfonic acid group

A series of activated carbon aerogel (ACA) bearing sulfonic acid group (SO3H) was prepared at different sulfonation temperatures (ACA-SO3H (X), X = 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 in Celsius). Palladium catalysts were then supported on ACA-SO3H (X) (Pd/ACA-SO3H (X)) for use in the decomposition of 4-phenoxyphenol to aromatics. 4-Phenoxyphenol was used as a lignin model compound for representing 4-O-5 bond in lignin. Acidity of Pd/ACA-SO3H (X) catalysts played an important role in the reaction. Among the catalysts tested, Pd/ACA-SO3H (90) with the largest acidity showed the highest conversion of 4-phenoxyphenol and total yield for main products (cyclohexanol, benzene, and phenol).

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► Pd catalyst supported on ACA bearing SO3H group (Pd/ACA-SO3H) was prepared.
► Catalytic decomposition of 4-phenoxyphenol to aromatics was conducted.
► Acidity of Pd/ACA-SO3H catalysts played an important role in the reaction.
► Pd/ACA-SO3H showed a better catalytic performance than Pd/ACA.