Mechanical and textural properties of extruded materials manufactured with AlFe and AlCeFe pillared bentonites

Extrudates were developed on AlFe and AlCeFe pillared bentonites shaped as pellets, Raschig rings and monoliths were prepared with Na- or Ca-bentonite as binder. The AlFe and AlCeFe poly(hydroxo metal) bentonites were tested as catalyst in the oxidation of phenol. The mechanical stability of the extrudates, measured as breaking force was evaluated as a function of thermal treatment (105, 400 and 500 °C) together with the stability to water immersion. Calcination at 500 °C was needed to obtain water stable materials. Specific surface area, micro- and mesopore volume of the extrudates depended on the calcination temperature. The conversion rate for phenol oxidation with extrudates was generally lower than for powders, due to an increased induction period and diffusion limitations.