Abstract
Catalysts based on Keggin-type heteropolyacids and reduced Pt-Ce oxides supported on silica were prepared for their use in isomerization of n-hexane in the presence of hydrogen. These mixed oxides are either used alone or mixed with silica-supported heteropolyacids. The catalyst after oxidation, reduction, and catalytic tests was characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Fourier transform Raman, thermogravimetry, and N
2 adsorption. The objective of the present study is to select the catalyst having the best isomer (branched) yield under optimal operating conditions (reaction temperature, reduction temperature, flow duration, etc.). The results show that the presence of the reduced oxides is not only beneficial for eliminating coke position but also effective for maintaining the structure of silica-supported heteropolyacids during reaction. Moreover, the better activity and the higher selectivity for isomers can be found with these samples.