Preparation, characterization and catalytic activity of titania pillared montmorillonite clays

Titania pillared clays are prepared through a novel method using titania sol via colloidal route as the pillaring agent. Formation of pillared clay (PILC) is proved from the physico-chemical characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), surface area–pore volume measurements, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and elemental analysis (ICP-AES). The acidity of the catalysts is measured from temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) of ammonia. Ethylation of benzene with ethanol is carried out in gas phase to test the catalytic activity. Good correlation is obtained with alkylation activity and acidity. Enhanced porosity upon pillaring allows shape selective catalysis within the pores to get ethylbenzene as the only product.