Metal–support interactions in surface-modified Cu–Co catalysts applied in higher alcohol synthesis

Abstract

Cu–Co-based model catalysts were prepared by a sophisticated alkali-free synthesis method and tested in the conversion of synthesis gas to higher alcohols. MoO₃-coated alumina was used as the support, providing both high specific surface area and strongly interacting sites for the deposition of the active metals. A bulk Cu/Co ratio of ~2 was found to be most suitable in terms of activity and product distribution. Surface enrichment of Mo for all samples was observed by XPS, which significantly influenced the performance of the catalysts. Mo was found to be both a structural and a chemical promoter. Strong metal–support interactions were further achieved by modification of alumina with magnesia. With 12 wt% Mg incorporated, the catalysts showed 40% total oxygenate selectivity including 11% selectivity to ethanol.