Synergistic bimetallic CeNi/SiO2 for boosting the catalytic activity of levulinic acid hydrogenation in gas phase

The bimetallic CeNi/SiO2 catalysts were prepared by impregnation method and characterized by N2 adsorption/desorption, XRD, HRTEM, XPS, H2-chemisorption, H2-TPR, NH3-TPD, in situ pyridine FT-IR and TG etc. techniques. The results showed that the addition of ceria could help the Ni nanoparticles disperse better through keeping them from aggregating, and generate more abundant oxygen vacancy which further facilitated the reduction of nickel oxides to give more active sites through the interaction between Ce and Ni species. Meanwhile, the bimetallic catalysts involved newly the medium acidic site that was favorable for the formation of desired product γ-valerolactone (GVL) and for the improvement of coke resistance. The synergistic effect in CeNi species boosted the conversion of levulinic acid reach 82.5% with a GVL selectivity of 96.1% on 10Ce10Ni/SiO2 sample. [Display omitted] •Catalytic conversion of bio-derived LA into GVL in gas phase.•Synergistic effect of Ce and Ni enhanced catalytic activity.•Ce was helpful for dispersing the Ni nanoparticles.•Acidity and particle size of active site affect the catalytic performance.•Coke resistance was improve by introducing Ce into Ni/SiO2 catalyst.