Preparation of Ni–B amorphous alloy catalyst from nickel hydrazine complex with ultrasonic assistance

Fine Ni–B amorphous alloy catalysts with uniform particles were prepared by means of chemical reduction of nickel hydrazine (N2H4) complex by BH4− in aqueous solution with ultrasonic assistance. During glucose hydrogenation, the as-prepared Ni–B catalyst exhibited much higher activity than the conventional Ni–B catalysts obtained via direct reduction of Ni2+ by BH4− and Raney Ni. The higher activity could be attributed to both higher dispersion of Ni active sites and electronic effect. The nickel hydrazine complex was found to retard and prevent an abrupt formation and agglomeration of Ni–B catalysts during the catalysts preparation. It was also found that the ultrasound plays a positive role.

► Nickel hydrazine complex as catalyst precursor.
► Catalysts for the hydrogenation of glucose.
► Catalysts have more uniform active centers, enhancement of thermal stability.
► Structure effect and electronic effect.