Platinum/γ-Al2O3 catalytic membrane: Preparation, morphological and catalytic characterizations

Abstract A catalytic membrane has been prepared by deposition of platinum, using ion-exchange methods, in the porous framework of a γ-alumina layer. The conditions controlling parameters such as the homogeneity and distribution of the platinum particles have been investigated. The distribution of the platinum particle sizes in and out of the membrane has been also studied as well as the permeability of the membrane before and after platinum deposition. Catalytic properties of the platinum/membrane catalyst have been studied in a simple reaction (toluene hydrogenation, where no membrane effect is anticipated) in order to characterize the surface properties of the platinum particles deposited inside the membrane and compare them with those of conventional catalysts.