Synthesis of Methyl Isobutyl Ketone over Pd/MgO/SiO2

In this paper, we have examined the activity and selectivity of catalysts for the one-step, gas phase production of methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) from acetone (propanone) over the temperature range 373−573 K. The catalysts used were an impregnated MgO/silica, a Pd-MgO/silica formed from coimpregnation of the nitrates, and a Pd supported on a 1% Mg doped silica, Pd/Mg-SiO2. Using MgO/silica, mesityl oxide (MO) was formed with 100% selectivity at 373 and 473 K. Addition of Pd gave 100% selectivity to MIBK at 373 K, albeit at low conversion. Pd-MgO/silica revealed a promotional effect of the MgO on the hydrogenation function of the Pd and a promotional effect of the Pd on the aldol condensation activity of the MgO. The Pd/Mg-SiO2 catalyst showed high selectivity but low conversion, as no promoting effect was observed.