Influence of base strength on the catalytic performance of nano-sized alkaline earth metal oxides supported on carbon nanofibers

Nano-sized (3 nm) alkaline earth metal oxides supported on carbon nanofibers were prepared by a facile impregnation and heat treatment method of the corresponding nitrates. These supported catalysts showed a significant improved activity for the aldol reaction and transesterification compared to the respective bulk materials which did not show any appreciable activity. A linear correlation was found between the initial reaction rate and the strength of the basic sites as determined by CO2 calorimetry indicating the importance of the base in the rate determining step of the reactions.