Isomerization reactions of n-hexane on partially reduced MoO3/TiO2

Isomerization of n-hexane on partially reduced MoO3 deposited on TiO2 was carried out using different masses of the catalyst. Consistent catalytic behaviour in terms of conversion and isomerization selectivity was observed regardless of the mass of the catalyst. A typical conversion of 80% and 90% of selectivity in isomerization products was obtained at 623 K, 0.7 h−1 LHSV and 15 bar hydrogen pressure. The major isomerization products are 2MP and 3MP present at the thermodynamic equilibrium ratio. Di-branched 2,2-DMB and 2,3-DMB were also obtained in the range of 18% of the isomerization products. The products distribution is comparable to that reported for Pt based catalysts. No changes were observed in the catalyst activity following its exposure to the hydrocarbon reactant for 60 days.