Structure-reactivity correlations in MgAl hydrotalcite catalysts for biodiesel synthesis

Abstract

A series of [Mg(1−x)Alx(OH)2]x+(CO3)x/n2− hydrotalcite materials with compositions over the range x = 0.25–0.55 have been synthesised using an alkali-free coprecipitation route. All materials exhibit XRD patterns characteristic of the hydrotalcite phase with a steady lattice expansion observed with increasing Mg content. XPS measurements reveal a decrease in both the Al and Mg photoelectron binding energies with Mg incorporation which correlates with the increased intra-layer electron density. All materials are effective catalysts for the liquid phase transesterification of glyceryl tributyrate with methanol for biodiesel production. The rate increases steadily with Mg content, with the Mg rich Mg2.93Al catalyst an order of magnitude more active than MgO, with pure Al2O3 being completely inert. The rate of reaction also correlates with intralayer electron density which can be associated with increased basicity.

Publication DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apcata.2005.03.027
Divisions: College of Engineering & Physical Sciences > School of Infrastructure and Sustainable Engineering > Chemical Engineering & Applied Chemistry
College of Engineering & Physical Sciences > Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI)
Uncontrolled Keywords: green chemistry,biodiesel,renewable fuel,solid base,hydrotalcite,heterogeneous catalysis,transesterification
Publication ISSN: 1873-3875
Last Modified: 23 Oct 2019 14:25
Date Deposited: 30 Oct 2014 09:05
Full Text Link:
Related URLs: http://www.scop ... tnerID=8YFLogxK (Scopus URL)
Published Date: 2005-06-22
Authors: Cantrell, David G.
Gillie, Lisa J.
Lee, Adam F. (ORCID Profile 0000-0002-2153-1391)
Wilson, Karen (ORCID Profile 0000-0003-4873-708X)

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