Determination and selective decomposition of alkyl hydroperoxides for the selective oxidation of hydrocarbons
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Date
2024
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Publisher
Univrsity of Sheffield
Abstract
This study focusses on the design of supported metal nanoparticle catalysts in a solvent free system under mild reaction conditions, as well as the selective oxidation of alkanes and cyclic alkanes utilising molecular oxygen as the oxidant. The projects’ goal is to develop supported metal nanoparticle catalysts for the direct oxidation of hydrocarbons, enabling the synthesis of oxygenated products such as alcohol and ketone. These compounds serve as important products in the production of fibres, fragrances and pharmaceuticals. With this objective, supported Ag metal particles were synthesized, showing the ability to activate both molecular oxygen O2 and the organic substrate.
Description
In specific terms, Ag/Nb2O5 was designed for the oxidation of ethylbenzene, cyclooctane, and p-xylene. An extensive study was conducted to assess Ag and Nb2O5 catalytic efficacy in the oxidation of ethylbenzene. This involved characterising the metal and support using XPS, XRD, and TEM, as well as a methodical assessment of the impact of alcohol or 1-phenyl ethyl alkyl hydroperoxide residues in ethylbenzene.
Keywords
Catalysis, Metal oxide, Ag/Nb2O5, Alkyl hydroperoxide