Confinement effect of carbon nanotubes on the product distribution of selective hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde

Using a catalyst composed of Ru nanoparticles dispersed on the exterior walls of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) leads to selective formation of hydrocinnamaldehyde, whereas confinement of the Ru nanoparticles within the CNT channels facilitates hydrogenation of C=O bonds and complete hydrogenation to give cinnamyl alcohol and hydrocinnamyl alcohol in addition to hydrocinnamaldehyde.