PI.119 Ni encapsulation by SiO2: improvement of metal stability and activity in aqueous phase furfural hydrogenation

Resumo

In this study, the stability and catalytic activity of a Ni-SiO₂ catalyst with encapsulated architecture (core-shell) were evaluated. Two nanoparticles synthesis methods were studied and the one which obtained smaller particles was used to synthesize the encapsulated catalyst. TGA data indicated that the nanoparticles resistance to oxidation in air was improved after encapsulation. In aqueous phase furfural hydrogenation tests, a decrease in conversion was observed in comparison to a Ni/SiO₂ supported catalyst. Despite that, 62.5 % of furfural conversion was achieved, showing that the encapsulated catalyst has potential to be used in the studied reaction.