An X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopic Study of Copper Chromite Catalysts

Abstract

A series of copper chromite catalysts have been studied by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The data indicate that in the as-received form the copper is present as a mixture of Cu(OH)2 and CuO. After calcination at 500 °C only CuO is present. The chromium is present as Cr+3 and Cr+4 when no promoter is added. When a BaO promoter is added, the Cr+6 is stabilized. Calcination at 500°C for varying periods of time alter the relative amounts of Cr+3 and Cr+6 on the catalytic surface. In addition, the relative amounts of the various oxidation states are a function of calcination temperature. At a calcination temperature of 240°C a Cr+5 surface species is reproducibly observed in one of the catalysts.