Preparation of MoO3/MgO catalysts with eggshell and uniform Mo distribution by methanol assisted spreading: Effect of MoO3 dispersion on rate of spreading

MoO3/MgO catalysts were prepared by the reaction of MgO extrudates (diameter 1.6 mm, SBET = 311 m2 g−1) with the MoO3/methanol slurry at room temperature. Sharp and deep eggshell Mo concentration profiles were formed. With sufficient MoO3 amount, the shell thickness increased with time until support saturation. Planetary mill ground MoO3 reacted much faster than MoO3 ground in an agate mortar mill. Uniform saturated loading of 19% MoO3 was achieved after 5 days in the former case while 11 days was not sufficient for support saturation in the latter case. HDS activity of saturated MoO3/MgO catalyst was the same as of commercial MoO3/Al2O3.