Highly active and selective catalytic transfer hydrogenolysis of α-methylbenzyl alcohol catalyzed by supported Pd catalyst

A novel supported Pd catalyst was synthesized by using plant tannin grafted collagen fiber as the supporting matrix. The as-prepared Pd catalyst was subsequently used for the catalytic transfer hydrogenolysis of α-methylbenzyl alcohol. Due to the fibrous morphology of collagen fiber and the well dispersed Pd nanoparticles anchored by tannins, the as-prepared Pd catalyst showed superior activity for the catalytic transfer hydrogenolysis of α-methylbenzyl alcohol when compared with the Pd catalyst supported on inorganic oxides. Moreover, the as-prepared Pd catalyst can be reused at least 6 times without significant loss of activity and selectivity, suggesting a satisfied reusability.

Graphical abstractFibrous Pd–BT–CF catalyst (a, SEM image) with well dispersed Pd nanoparticles (b, TEM image).Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► Fibrous Pd–BT–CF catalyst with high dispersed Pd nanoparticles. ► Superior activity and reusability for the catalytic transfer hydrogenolysis of α-methylbenzyl alcohol. ► Distinct advantages in catalytic properties as compared with other inorganic oxide supported Pd catalysts.