Ni-containing mixed oxides as catalysts for the one-step synthesis of methyl-isobutyl-ketone (MIBK) from acetone

The one-step synthesis of MIBK (methyl isobutyl ketone) from acetone in gas phase was studied over Ni-Mg-Al mixed oxides prepared by coprecipitation (Mg/Ni equal to 5 or 15) or by impregnation (Mg/Ni molar ratio equal to 5). The catalytic activity and product selectivity were influenced by both nickel content and its incorporation method, the most promising results being presented by the catalyst with Mg/Ni atomic ratio of 5, in which the nickel was incorporated by impregnation. As to the effect of H2/acetone molar ratio, the higher MIBK yield was observed for a H2/acetone ratio of 0.5 or 2.0 at 523 K.