Structural feature and catalytic performance of Cu―SiO2―TiO2 cogelled xerogel catalysts for oxidative carbonylation of methanol to dimethyl carbonate

Cu―SiO2―TiO2 cogelled xerogel catalysts were prepared, characterized and tested for oxidative carbonylation of methanol to dimethyl carbonate (DMC). The catalyst with 12.5 mol% of Cu loading shows better catalytic performance and reduced corrosion as compared with the CuCl catalytic system, which is attributed to highly dispersed Cu+ active centers as well as lower chloride content. Further copper loading resulted in loss of copper during the preparation of the catalyst and decreased catalytic activity in DMC synthesis.

Graphical AbstractPart of the [SiO4] groups replaced by [TiO4] groups creates negative charges in the framework, which are reasonably balanced by the presence of Cu + in Cu―SiO2―TiO2 catalysts.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch Highlights► Great amount of chloride was removed from the xerogel during the calcination process. ► The reductive gases released from the xerogels promote the reduction of Cu2+ species. ► Negative charges created by [TiO4] replacing [SiO4] groups are balanced by isolated Cu+ ions.