MCM-41 silica modified with copper and iron oxides as catalysts for methanol decomposition

Mixed copper and iron modified MCM-41 mesoporous silica with various Cu/Fe ratio are characterized by N2 physisorption, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron micrographs (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Moessbauer spectroscopy and temperature programmed reduction with hydrogen. Their catalytic properties in methanol decomposition to CO and H2 are investigated and compared with that of the corresponding mono-component materials. The catalytic behaviour of bi-component materials are discussed based on the nature of the catalytic active sites.

Addition of very small amounts of Cu to Fe supported on MCM-41 materials (0.03CuFe/M41) leads not only to substantial increase and stabilization of the catalytic activity in methanol decomposition, but also to a decrease in the methane selectivity. The formation of iron and copper complex catalytic active center, including Fe(III) and Cu(II) species in various ratio is assumed. Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide