Article,
Metal cations intercalated titanate nanotubes as catalysts for alpha,beta unsaturated esters production
APPLIED CATALYSIS A-GENERAL, (2013)
DOI: 10.1016/j.apcata.2012.12.035
Abstract
Characterization and catalytic performances of cations (M=Ce4+, La3+,
Co2+, Cu2+ or Na+) intercalated titanate nanotubes (MTNT) were performed
for alpha,beta unsaturated esters production. Structural properties of
the solids were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM)
analysis and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy
measurements whereas textural properties were obtained through nitrogen
adsorption-desorption isotherms. The transition metals were intercalated
in titanate nanotubes by ionic exchange reaction where the Na+ cations
were substituted by Ce4+ La3+, Co2+ and Cu2+ ones. Also, the structural
characterizations revealed that the ion-exchange processes can favour
the formation of nanosized oxides on the TNT surfaces, in some cases.
Textural analysis showed high surface area, pore volume and diameters,
but a superior catalytic activity and recyclability was only observed
for CeTNT and LaTNT catalysts. The improved performance of CeTNT was
believed to be related to the presence of Ce4+ cations in the
interlamellar region and CeO2 nanosized particles on TNT surface as
well. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
