Influence of the texture of chromia catalysts on their activity in synthesis of 2-methylthiophene

The texture of Cr₂O₃-K₂O/Al₂O₃catalysts containing oxides of rare earth elements (REE) was studied. The catalysts are used for the synthesis of 2-methylthiophene by the reaction of H₂S with n-pentane or piperilene. The heterocyclization of n-pentane is a consecutive reaction involving a step of dehydrogenation of initial hydrocarbon. At this step the texture of the catalyst affects the yield of 2-methylthiophene. The yield of 2-methylthiophene obtained from piperilene and I₂S is independent of the catalyst texture.