Improving the catalytic performance of Ni(Ru)/MgO in the conversion of ethanol to butanol by dispersion on gamma-Al2O3 pellets

Nickel or ruthenium have been dispersed on commercial gamma-Al2O3 pellets promoted with magnesium oxide for use as catalysts in the upgrade of bio-ethanol into butanol as possible higher alcohol additive into gasoline. Interactions between MgO and Al2O3 as well as between the active metal and the composite Mg/Al substrate have been investigated by XRD, SEM/EDX, N2 physisorption, H2-TPR, CO2-TPD. The conversion of ethanol into butanol has been investigated at 350-400°C under diluted ethanol feed conditions in order to define properties promoting high butanol yields.