Catalytic conversion of alcohols over alumina–zirconia mixed oxides: Reactivity and selectivity Original Research Article

The amorphous and crystalline mixed 25, 50 and 75 wt.% Al2O3–ZrO2 composites were prepared by means of sol–gel method using aluminum iso-propoxide and zirconyl nitrate precursors. Physicochemical properties were determined using XRD, BET, NH3-TPD, TGA, SEM, and FT-IR spectroscopy. Catalytic activity and selectivity were investigated for the dehydration of 2-octanol and 1,2-diphenyl-2-propanol (DPP). Al75Zr25 composite is more selective than other forms for the conversion of 2-octanol. The selectivity of DPP for 1-alkene formation was increased over Al25Zr75 catalyst. The crystalline 50 wt.% catalyst dehydrated tertiary alcohol (DPP) selectively in the presence of 2-octanol. The amorphous 50 wt.% catalyst dehydrated DPP predominately to 1-alkene isomer. The crystalline catalyst favored the formation of E-2-alkene.