Synthesis of FeMCM-41 catalyst using iron containing industrial waste

Abstract

Two methods for direct synthesis of iron-containing MCM-41 catalysts using ferric nitrate as iron source were investigated. The objective was to obtain optimal condition for synthesis of iron-containing MCM-41 using iron oxide from industrial iron waste. These methods were one-step crystallization at 100 °C for 10 days and two-step crystallization at the temperature of 100 °c for 2 days and subsequently at 125 °c for 6 days. Iron -contain MCM-41 catalysts with different Si/Fe ratios in gel of 30-100 were also synthesized. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, atomic absorption, electron spin resonance, nitrogen adsorption and scanning electron microscopy. The products with the SiiFe ratios in gel of 50 and 100 have ordered hexagonal pore structure after two-step crystallization. The environments of iron in the structure are tetrahedral and octahedral coordination. Catalytic performance of both types of iron-containing MCM-41 catalysts is studied using alkylation reactions of benzene with benzyl chloride, and benzene with 2-chlorobutane. Both catalysts exhibit high conversion of reactants up to 99% when reaction temperature is increased. Conversely, selectivity of main product is decreased. The optimal conditions with high product selectivity for arylation of benzene with benzyl chloride is 100 °c for I hour, and for alkylation of benzene with 2-chlorobutane is 100 °c for 2 hours.