Dehydrogenation of cyclohexanol on copper containing catalysts: The role of the support and the preparation method

SiO2 and Al2O3 supported copper catalysts were prepared by “chemisorption–hydrolysis” or incipient wetness impregnation methods and investigated by XRD, TG-TPR, UV–vis diffuse reflectance and FTIR spectroscopy. Formation of finely dispersed copper oxide species was registered for the samples prepared by “chemisorption–hydrolysis” method, while a significant amount of XRD detectable copper oxide phase is registered for the SiO2 impregnated one. The latter materials possess higher catalytic selectivity in cyclohexanol dehydrogenation to cyclohexanone.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► CuO/SiO2 and CuO/Al2O3 are prepared by chemisorption-hydrolysis and impregnation.
► They are highly active catalysts for cyclohexanol dehydrogenation.
► Their catalytic behavior depends on the support and the preparation procedure.
► CuO/SiO2, prepared by impregnation shows the highest selectivity to cyclohexanone.