An application of C0-Mg-O/Al2O3 catalyst on the combustion of anhydrides

Abstract

The oxidation property of the Co-Mg-O/Al₂O₃ catalyst on the combustion of phthalic anhydride and maleic anhydride was investigated. The results show that magnesium promotes the adsorption of anhydride leading to better combustion of the anhydride. Further investigation using benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and acetic acid indicates that the reactions prefer to initiate at the anhydride ring. For maleic anhydride, the Co-Mg-O/Al₂O₃ catalysts can also initiate the reaction at the C=C bond. The research also found that the ratio of cobalt per magnesium should be at an appropriate ratio to keep a balance between the adsorption of the anhydrides and the catalytic activity of cobalt and alumina support.