Zeolitized-pumice as a new support for hydrogenation catalysts

A zeolitized-pumice (Z-PM), obtained from a pumice mine waste by extraction of most of the silica contained, has been proposed as a new catalyst support. The as prepared Z-PM material was characterized by surface area and porosity measurements, XRD, SEM and TEM-EDX, showing a high content of crystalline zeolite Pc (about 60%) and a higher (33 m2/g) surface area compared to starting pumice.Pt and Pt–Sn supported on Z-PM were prepared by impregnation and their catalytic properties in the selective hydrogenation of campholenic aldehyde to naturanol investigated in detail. Results highlighted the better performance of Pt and Pt–Sn/Z-PM catalysts in the selective reduction of –CO group in comparison to corresponding silica-supported catalysts.