Selective Formation of Ethene from CO Hydrogenation Reaction over In2O3–CeO2, –La2O3, and –Y2O3 Mixed Oxide Catalysts

Abstract

Abstract CO hydrogenation over mixed oxides of 3A and 4A Groups (Y2O3, La2O3, CeO2, and ZrO2) with 3B Group (Al2O3, Ga2O3, and In2O3) was carried out. The addition of Ga2O3 or In2O3 to Y2O3, La2O3, and CeO2 enhances the formation of light alkenes. An In2O3–CeO2 catalyst shows the highest selectivity (43%) for ethene with the lowest selectivity (0.5%) for ethane in total hydrocarbons produced. The addition of In2O3 to CeO2 results in an increase in activity for the CO hydrogenation reaction. From the results of an ethene hydrogenation reaction over mixed oxide catalysts, the high selectivity for alkene formation over In2O3-containing catalysts is due to a suppression of alkene hydrogenation by the addition of In2O3. Indium in CeO2 is highly dispersed while keeping an oxidation state of +1 or +3 under the reaction conditions.