Dy2O3 as a catalyst for a Meerwein-Ponndorf-Verley reaction

Dy₂O₃ activated at high temperature is reported as a catalyst for the liquid phase reduction of cyclohexanone. The catalytic activity of Dy₂O₃ activated at 300, 500 and 800°C and its mixed oxides with alumina for the reduction of cyclohexanone with 2-propanol has been reported. The data have been correlated with the electron donating properties of the catalysts which were reported from the adsorption of electron acceptors EA] of various electron affinity on the surface of these oxides.