Decomposition of glucose with in situ deoxygenation in a low H2 pressure environment - Pt. II: Bimetallic catalysts

Bimetallic catalysts, CoFe, NiFe, PdFe, and PtCo were studied for their ability to perform in situ deoxygenation of glucose decomposition production at 350 degrees C. Catalysts were prepared via co-impregnation and sequential impregnation methods on SiO2 in combinations of 4 wt% and 0.5 wt% for the two metals. Easily identifiable furanic compounds in the products were used to establish an understanding of deoxygenation activity. Co-impregnated 0.5%Co4%Fe/SiO2 and sequentially impregnated (Fe first) 0.5%Ni4%Fe/SiO2 catalysts provided the most favourable results. Thanks to the alloying of Co and Fe which stabilized Fe, the 0.5%Co4%Fe/SiO2 catalyst eliminated furfural content and maintained a higher output of H-2. The 0.5%Ni4%Fe/SiO2 catalyst required the Ni and Fe phases to remain uninterrupted to perform their synergistic roles which boosted DMF content and overall reduced solid residue.