The effect of microwave heating on the reaction of propan-2-ol over alkalised carbon catalysts

The reaction of propan-2-ol has been studied over a series of alkalised carbon catalysts. The nature of the carbon support has been shown to affect the selectivity of the catalyst. Operation of the catalyst under conditions of microwave irradiation has resulted in reducing the average temperature required for reaction to take place. This is shown to be the result of randomly fluctuating “hot spots” that are formed within the catalyst bed.