Mesoporous RuO2/TiO2 composites prepared by cyclodextrin-assisted colloidal self-assembly: towards efficient catalysts for the hydrogenation of methyl oleate

Abstract

Mesoporous RuO₂/TiO₂ composites were prepared using a template-directed colloidal self-assembly approach combined with a cyclodextrin (CD)-assisted aqueous impregnation method. The supramolecular assemblies formed between the randomly methylated β-cyclodextrin (RaMeβ-CD) and the block copolymer P123 acted as a template for the formation of a highly porous TiO₂ network over which uniform dispersion of ruthenium nanoparticles was achieved. By combining dynamic light scattering, X-ray diffraction, N₂-adsorption, temperature-programmed reduction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, we show that CD-based assemblies provide a versatile and easily accessible toolbox with different functionalities for generating metal-supported catalysts with controlled pore architecture and uniform metal distribution. The performance of these supported catalysts was evaluated in the liquid phase hydrogenation of methyl oleate (MO, C18:1) to methyl stearate (MS, C18:0). Control of ruthenium dispersion into the large pores of RaMeβ-CD-P123-templated TiO₂ material enhanced catalyst activity and selectivity for the hydrogenation of the internal CC bond and permitted catalyst separation and reuse without loss of activity. Our findings highlight the pivotal role played by the CD-based assemblies on the performance of supported ruthenium catalysts.