Synthesis, characterisation, and evaluation of stable, efficient modified nanocopper-based glycerol hydrogenolysis catalysts

A series of CuO/SiO2 catalysts containing different modifiers were prepared via co-precipitation and used for glycerol hydrogenolysis. CuO–CeO2/SiO2 gave the best glycerol conversion rate (100%) and highest selectivity for 1,2-propanediol (up to 95%). Reactions were carried out under the following conditions: temperature, 220°C; H2 pressure, 0.5 MPa; glycerol concentration, 100 wt.%; and H2/glycerol molar ratio, 35:1. The catalysts were characterised by X-ray diffraction, NH3 temperature-programmed desorption, N2 adsorption, and scanning electron microscopy. The CuO–CeO2/SiO2 catalyst had smaller particle sizes, better dispersion, and greater specific surface area than the CuO/SiO2, CuO–phosphotungstic acid (PTA)/SiO2, and CuO–CeO2–PTA/SiO2 catalysts.