Catalytic activity of hydrated alumina supported molybdenum, chromium and vanadium-oxo species: A comparative study in dibenzyl ether formation

Aluminum hydroxide samples were prepared and impregnated with 5 wt% of molybdenum, chromium or vanadium-oxo species. Characterization of these materials were carried out through colorimetry, surface area, pyridine adsorption studies, n-butyl amine titration, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) pattern and TGA/DSC. Catalytic activity of all the materials prepared was evaluated in benzyl alcohol conversion. Dibenzyl ether (DBE) was the major product (80%) on supported molybdenum catalysts. Dibenzyl was also formed in the case of vanadium containing catalysts. Supported chromium catalysts exhibited least activity for benzyl alcohol reaction. A good correlation between the physico-chemical properties and catalytic activity has been observed.