A continuous process for the reductive deoxygenation of aromatic ketones over Cu30Cr10/γ-Al2O3

A continuous process for reduction of aromatic ketones to the corresponding aromatic alkanes over Cu30Cr10/γ-Al2O3 was established in a fixed-bed reactor. A series of aromatic ketones were examined, and all of the corresponding aromatic hydrocarbons were obtained in more than 95% yield. The catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and H2-temperature programmed reduction. Cu0 is believed to be the active center of the catalyst. Cr was found to have an important effect on catalytic activity and stability.