Catalytic activity of poly[(methacrylato)aluminum(III)] obtained at different gamma-radiation doses

A novel coordination polymer was obtained throughout the polymerization of aluminum(III) methacrylate at different doses (10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 80 kGy) using gamma-radiation as initiator. The materials were characterized by electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR), thermogravimetric analyses (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy/electron dispersive X-ray analyses (SEM/EDAX) techniques; particle size distribution and surface areas were also determined. The samples of poly[(methacrylato)aluminum(III)] obtained at different γ-doses were found to catalyze 2-propanol dehydrogenation and dehydration to acetone and propene. A noticeable activity was observed with Poly[(methacrylato)aluminum(III)] obtained at 50 kGy, which has higher conversion of 2-propanol and the highest selectivity to acetone (∼90%). Results suggest that the decomposition of 2-propanol is correlated with the effect of gamma-radiation on the structure and surface area of the catalysts.

► We report the synthesis of micro-crystalline novel poly[(methacrylato)aluminum(III)]. ► Polymer was obtained throughout the polymerization of Al(III) methacrylate at different doses. ► PMALs were found to catalyze 2-propanol dehydrogenation and dehydration to acetone and propene. ► PMAL obtained at 50 kGy has the higher conversion of 2-propanol and selectivity to acetone (∼90%).