Reduction of Cu2+ and Ni2+ In Zeolite Y Using Polyol Process: A New Approach In The Preparation Of Metal Supported Catalysts

Abstract

ABSTRACTZeolite NaY was exchanged with three levels of Cu2+ and Ni2+ ions which were subsequently reduced in ethylene glycol (polyol process) at 195° C. This process effectively reduced the transition metal ions to zerovalent forms and the degree of reduction was dependent on the amount of exchange and the location of transition metal ions. Polyol process was found to be more efficient in reducing these ions located in zeolite cages than commonly used molecular hydrogen. Comparison of reduction behavior of Cu2+ and Ni2+ ions indicated that better metal dispersion in NaY can be achieved for Ni2+ than Cu2+ by the polyol process.