Influence of the Activation Method of Rh-Sn-B/γ-Al2O3 Catalysts on the Selective Hydrogenation of Oleic Acid to Oleyl Alcohol

Abstract

The selection of an appropriate preparation method is crucial to enhance catalytic performance and optimize the resources used in catalyst synthesis. Achieving improvements in conversion rates, desired product yields are essential for increasing interest and competitiveness in the industrial sector. This study aims to analyze the influence of the preparation method of Rh(1%)-Sn(4%)/γ-Al2O3 catalysts on the selective hydrogenation of oleic acid to oleyl alcohol. Results from temperature programmed reduction (TPR), cyclohexane dehydrogenation (DHC), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) clearly demonstrate that incorporating sodium borohydride in the preparation process results in a stronger interaction between Rh and Sn. The degree of interaction between Rh and Sn is significantly influenced by the catalyst preparation and activation method, with a strong interaction promoting selectivity towards the formation of oleyl alcohol.