Operando DRIFT spectroscopy on unprecedented influence of Cu2+ over NiAl LDHs for isomerization of eugenol

In the isomerization of alkenyl aromatics over NiAl3 (Ni/Al atomic ratio is 3.0) layered double hydroxides (LDHs), minimal incorporation of Cu2+ drastically reduced the efficacy of the catalyst. Efforts have been made to reveal the cause through operando DRIFT spectroscopic analysis for NiAl3 and NiCuAl (with Ni:Cu atomic ratio of 90:10) LDHs using eugenol as a model compound. Results suggest that the mode of eugenol adsorption is critical wherein the activity enhanced when eugenol adsorbed with the benzene ring parallel to the catalyst surface. Findings from this study explain many of the experimental observations that were hitherto not well understood.

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► Operando DRIFT spectroscopic studies of eugenol isomerization over LDHs was done.
► Mode of adsorption of eugenol on the catalyst surface influences the activity.
► Activity was higher when eugenol adsorbed with the benzene ring parallel to surface.
► This study validates many experimental observations like detrimental effect of Cu2 +.
► Findings from this work might assist in the design of new and improved catalysts.