Binary Magnesium-Based Amorphous Alloy Precursors in the Synthesis of Methyl Isobutyl Ketone

Abstract

Results of our recent studies on the use of M-Mg(O) (M = Cu, Pd or Ni) amorphous alloy powders as catalyst precursors in the one-step conversion of acetone to methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) in the presence of hydrogen are summarized. Samples prepared by mechanical alloying and mechanically induced self-sustaining reaction (MSR) produce catalyst materials with varying catalytic properties. Precursor materials, in most cases, could be transformed by controlled oxidation into catalysts of enhanced activities and selectivities.