Various hexagonally ordered mesoporous silicas as supports for chromium species—The effect of support on surface properties

Hexagonally ordered mesoporous silicas of MCM-41 type, SBA-3 and SBA-15 were applied as supports for chromium species introduced via incipient wetness impregnation. The samples were characterised by XRD, N2 adsorption, UV–vis spectroscopy, H2-TPR, and a test reaction (acetonylacetone cyclisation). Their catalytic performance in sulphurisation of methanol was studied. Formation of active centres on mesoporous silica supports as a result of the post-synthesis modification with CrO3 was found to depend strongly on the preparation conditions used in the synthesis of the support. These conditions determined not only the textural/structural parameters but also surface properties of the support, important for the anchoring of metal species which is crucial for catalytic activity.

Graphical abstractHexagonally ordered mesoporous silicas were applied as supports for chromium species introduced via incipient wetness impregnation. Formation of active centres as a result of the post-synthesis modification with CrO3 was found to depend strongly on the preparation conditions used in the synthesis of the support.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide