Study of structure–performance relationships in Meerwein–Ponndorf–Verley reduction of crotonaldehyde on several magnesium and zirconium-based systems

摘要: Abstract Several magnesia and zirconia systems were synthesized through the sol–gel process (calcination temperature in 175–600 °C range) tested for liquid gas-phase Meerwein–Ponndorf–Verley reduction of crotonaldehyde with 2-propanol. In phase, only active, probably because carbonates water “poison” active sites basic magnesia. Moreover, more surface OH groups present solids, higher activity exhibited. As far as reactions gas phase are concerned, both solids latter exhibiting conversions at same reaction temperatures. Furthermore, MgO selectivity to crotyl alcohol increases which suggests that either new “in situ” created or existing ones unblocked made accessible reactants. All all, selectivities ca. 62% 16% conversion obtained ZrO 2 -200 -250 whereas values above 85% 50% achieved on gas-phase.