Structure and size effects in catalysis by immobilized nanoclusters of iron oxides

The activities of catalysts containing α-Fe2O3 or γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles supported on two types of silica (silica gel and layer silica) are tested in 3,4-dichlorobutene-1 isomerization and benzene alkylation by allyl chloride. γ-Fe2O3 particles supported on layer silica are the most active catalysts for both reactions. The high activity is associated with features of inverse spinel structure of γ-ferric oxide. The particle size and their location on the surface or interplane cavity of layer silica affect the catalytic activity.