Enhanced catalytic complete oxidation of 1,2-dichloroethane over mesoporous transition metal-doped γ-Al_2O_3

High-surface-area mesoprous powders of γ-Al2O3 doped with Cu2+, Cr3+, and V3+ions were prepared via a modified sol–gel method and were investigated as catalysts for the oxidation of chlorinated organic compounds. The composites retained high surface areas and pore volumes comparable with those of undoped γ-Al2O3 and the presence of the transition metal ions enhanced their surface acidic properties. The catalytic activity of the prepared catalysts in the oxidation of 1,2-dichloroethane(DCE) was studied in the temperature range of 250–400°C. The catalytic activity and product selectivity were strongly dependent on the presence and the type of dopant ion. While Cu2+- and Cr3+-containing catalysts showed100% conversion at 300°C and 350°C, V3+-containing catalyst showed considerably lower conversion. Furthermore, while the major products of the reactions over γ-alumina were vinyl chloride(C2H3Cl) and hydrogen chloride(HCl) at all temperatures, Cu- and Cr-doped catalysts showed significantly stronger capability for deep oxidation to CO2.

Enhanced catalytic complete oxidation of 1,2-dichloroethane over mesoporous transition metal-doped γ-Al2O3