Exchange reactions of benzene and alkylbenzenes with deuterium on alumina and magnesium oxide

Abstract

Some hydrogen-deuterium exchange reactions of benzene and alkylbenzenes on γ-alumina and magnesium oxide have been investigated. On alumina, benzene and toluene, both separately and together, have been exchanged with deuterium. In addition cross exchange between light toluene heavy benzene has been studied. The intermolecular redistribution of deuterium in [α-²H₃]-toluene and [αα′-²H₆]-p-xylene has also been followed. Similar reactions have been performed using magnesium oxide.

The results are discussed and probable mechanisms for the reactions proposed.