A Highly Efficient Pd/Boehmite Catalyst for Aqueous Phase Hydrogenation of Phenol to Cyclohexanone

Selective hydrogenation of phenol to cyclohexanone on heterogeneous catalysts is the key point for the development of fine chemicals. Herein, we report a boehmite supported Pd catalyst via impregnation method for efficient conversion of phenol to cyclohexanone in the aqueous phase. Compared with commercial Al2O3 and calcined boehmite supported Pd-based catalysts, the boehmite supported Pd catalyst (Pd/boehmite) achieves 98% conversion of phenol and 98% selectivity towards cyclohexanone under mild condition (1.5 h, 80 degrees C, 0.5 MPa H-2, n(phenol):n(Pd) = 50). The high conversion and selectivity are attributed to the boehmite support with large amounts of hydroxyl groups which prevents the further hydrogenation of cyclohexanone to cyclohexanol due to its hydrophilicity. The excellent catalytic performance and stability of Pd/boehmite catalyst will contribute to the production of cyclohexanone in industry. [GRAPHICS] .