Characterization of the Structure and Catalytic Activity of Pt/Sepiolite Catalysts

Four catalysts containing 1% w/w Pt deposited on various sepiolite supports were prepared. Two natural sepiolites and another two obtained by acid treatment of one of them were used. Both the sepiolites used as metal supports and the catalysts were characterized for structure and surface properties, using (1)H and (29)Si MAS NMR spectroscopy, and (29)Si CP/MAS NMR spectroscopy, in addition to hydrogen, pyridine, and CO(2) chemisorption measurements. The activity of the catalysts in the hydrogenation of benzene to cyclohexane and the dehydrogenation of cyclohexane to benzene was examined and the catalyst supported on the natural sepiolite called Pangel was found to be the most active of all. Copyright 2000 Academic Press.