| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 61499 | Journal of Catalysis | 2012 | 6 Pages |
Bimodal macro-/mesoporous silica monoliths (6 mm diameter, 1–4 cm length) were functionalized with aluminum oxide allowing the preparation of a new solid Lewis acid catalyst named Al-MonoSil. Al-MonoSil was used as catalytic microreactor for the in-flow implementation of the Diels–Alder reaction. Due to the interconnected and homogeneous system of macropores of 5 μm within the monolith, the Al-MonoSil shows high conversion and productivity in continuous flow without pressure drop. The external mass transfer limitations and the productivity were controlled by adjusting monolith length and flow rate. Al-MonoSil is a stable microreactor for long time productivity for Lewis acid–catalyzed reactions.
Graphical abstractAluminum oxide–grafted silica monoliths were proved as highly productive catalytic microreactors for the in-flow implementation of the Diels–Alder reaction. Control of contact time and monolithic length has allowed to overcome external diffusion limitations.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (121 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Design of new macro-/mesoporous monolith (Al-MonoSil) by Al2O3 grafting on silica monolith. ► Al-MonoSil microreactor shows high productivity for Diels–Alder reaction in flow. ► External diffusion limitations were overcome by adjusting flow rate and monolith length. ► Al-MonoSil is a stable microreactor for long-term production (>7 days). ► Al-MonoSil is a suitable catalyst for reactions requiring moderate Lewis acidity.
