A shape-selective catalyst utilizing a molecular sieving carbon with sharp pore distribution

Abstract

We have previously presented a new method for preparing molecular sieving carbon (MSC) from the coal modified by pitch and phenol-formaldehyde (PF) resin. By resorting to this method, we could prepare MSCs with sharp pore distributions around 0.37 to 0.45 nm in diameter. In this paper the possibility of using the MSC as a catalyst support that shows shape selectivity was examined. Methanol decomposition was performed at 350–450°C on the MSC supporting Ni as a model reaction. Methanol is known to be decomposed to CO and H 2 first, then CH 4, CO 2, and H 2O are produced through reactions between CO and H 2. It was possible to produce only CO and H 2, by using MSCs with sharp pore distributions around 0.45 nm in diameter. On the other hand, all the products were detected by use of the activated carbon whose pore distribution was broadened through steam activation of the MSC. This difference was found to be derived from the difference in the pore distributions between the MSC and the activated carbon. Thus it was clarified that the MSC with sharp pore distribution can be utilized as a shape selective catalyst support.