Synthesis of bimetallic Mo-W carbide from its sulphide precursor via propane carburization: statistical correlation of the physicochemical properties with preparation conditions

As part of a larger program on the combinatorial design of metal carbides for catalytic reaction studies, we have investigated the role of H-2:C3H8 ratio (1-5), carburization temperature (773-973 K) and reaction time (1-4 h) on the conversion of silica-supported Mo-W sulphide to the carbide product. While all three factors are important determinants of the physiochemical properties, namely; BET surface area, pore volume, acid site concentration and strength of the acid site, statistical analysis revealed that two-factor interactions were also significant and hence offer promising directions for further inquiry that may lead to synergistic effects in new catalyst formulations. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.