One-pot two-step process for direct propylene oxide production catalyzed by bi-functional Pd(Au)@TS-1 materials

Abstract

Different bi-functional materials (Pd(Au)@TS-1) based on metallic nanoparticles supported onto active nanocrystalline titanium silicalite (TS-1) zeolites were synthesized, characterized and used as recyclable heterogeneous catalysts for direct propylene oxide production from hydrogen, oxygen and propylene through one-pot two-step consecutive process. These catalysts allowed carrying out the combined reaction where metallic nanoparticles catalyzed the formation of in situ H2O2 that was the necessary intermediate for propylene epoxidation catalyzed by active TS-1 nanocrystalline support. Several variables were considered such as use of supercritical CO2 conditions, modifiable content of metallic species, and presence of additional co-solvents, surface acidity inhibitors and H2O2 stabilizers. Reusability and stability of the bi-functional catalyst was showed through consecutive catalytic cycles.