Catalytic Hydroconversion of Model Compounds over Ni/NiO@NC Nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Catalysis
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Lignite valorization is crucial for sustainable energy. Converting lignite into valuable aromatic compounds requires highly active catalysts.
• Developing efficient and recyclable catalysts is key for lignite upgrading.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize Ni/NiO@NC nanocomposites for lignite valorization.
• To evaluate the catalytic activity of Ni/NiO@NC for the hydroconversion of lignite model compounds.
• To investigate the reaction mechanism and recyclability of the magnetic catalyst.

Main Methods:

• Facile sol-gel method for synthesizing Ni/NiO@NC nanocomposites.
• Catalytic hydroconversion (CHC) of benzyloxybenzene under mild conditions (120 °C, 1.5 MPa H2).
• Product analysis at varying temperatures, pressures, and times to elucidate the reaction mechanism.

Main Results:

• Ni/NiO@NC nanocomposites exhibited high specific surface area and vesicular structure.
• Excellent catalytic activity was observed for CHC of benzyloxybenzene.
• The magnetic catalyst demonstrated easy separation via magnet and maintained high efficiency over six reuses.

Conclusions:

• Ni/NiO@NC nanocomposites serve as efficient and recyclable catalysts for lignite valorization.
• The catalyst facilitates the cleavage of >CH-O bonds in lignite model compounds.
• This study presents a promising approach for improved lignite utilization.