Hydrogenation of glucose over reduced Ni/Cu/Al hydrotalcite precursors

Ni/Cu/Al hydrotalcite precursors were synthesized by a co-precipitation method. The activity of the reduced precursors for hydrogenation of glucose to sorbitol was tested. The effects of preparation methods and activation treatment on the performance of the obtained catalysts were investigated in detail. XRD and XPS tests provided the essential properties of the precursors and prepared catalysts. The properly high reduction temperature could obviously enhance catalyst activity. The conversion of glucose and selectivity to sorbitol on Ni1.85Cu1Al1.15 catalyst at 398 K were 78.4 and 93.4 %, respectively.

Graphical abstractHydrotalcite-like compounds were reduced under high temperature in hydrogen atmosphere and were used for the hydrogenation of glucose for the first time. The obtained catalysts exhibited better catalytic activity when compared to Raney nickel and Al–Ni alloy catalysts, and the preparation method was simple and easy. The highest yield and selectivity of 73.2 and 93.4 % in sorbitol were achieved at 398 K under hydrogen atmosphere.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► HTlcs were used as precursors for glucose hydrogenation for the first time. ► The preparation cost for HTlcs catalyst was lower compared to Ru catalysts. ► Effects of metallic ions on catalyst activity were investigated in more detail.