Reaction of benzyl alcohol over the hydrogen storage intermetallic compound Mg2Cu

The reaction of benzyl alcohol over the hydrogen storage intermetallics Mg₂Cu was studied in the temperature range of 573–773 K. Benzaldehyde and toluene, the major products, were produced by dehydrogenation and disproportionation reactions, respectively. Anthracene, stilbene and benzyltoluenes were also formed due to benzylation reaction. Since the benzylation course was strongly influenced by shape selectivity considerations, these were produced in minor amounts. Below 673 K, Mg₂Cu behaves like metals while above 673 K it behaves like oxide systems in its catalytic properties.