Time-resolved XAS/MS/Raman monitoring of mutual copper self-reduction and ethanol dehydrogenation reactions

Abstract

Selective ethanol dehydrogenation using a Cu/Al₂O₃ catalyst was investigated by time-resolved XAS/MS/Raman techniques. On-line monitoring of the reaction products revealed that formation of H₂ and acetaldehyde occurs over intermediate Cu⁺ species self-reduced upon reaction and the selectivity to ethyl acetate results in coupling of acetyl and ethoxy species over mixed Cu°/Cu⁺ active sites.