Influence of Copper on the Isomerization of Eugenol for as-Synthesized NiCuAl Ternary Hydrotalcites: An Understanding Through Physicochemical Study

Catalysts with the hydrotalcite-like structure and general formula NiCuAlyz-HT having (Ni + Cu)/Al atomic ratio of 3.0 with varying Ni:Cu atomic compositions (100:0–50:50) were synthesized, characterized and tested for isomerization of eugenol to isoeugenol. The decrease in the activity upon addition of copper to NiAl lattice is investigated through temperature programmed reduction and phenol adsorption. Graphical Abstract Conversion of eugenol over active NiAl hydrotalcite significantly decreased upon incorporation of Cu 2+ in the NiAl binary lattice wherein substitution of 25 at% of Ni 2+ by Cu 2+ annihilated the isomerization activity. The decrease in the activity upon addition of copper to NiAl lattice is investigated through physiochemical studies.