The modifying effect of gallium on the properties of palladium catalysts based on sulfated zirconia

Two series of palladium-containing catalysts were synthesized in the study: sulfated zirconia catalysts with different content of gallium (Pd/SZG) and sulfated zirconia catalysts modified simultaneously with aluminum and gallium (Pd/SZAG). It was found that the introduction of gallium does not change the ratio of monoclinic and tetragonal phases of zirconia in Pd/SZG and Pd/SZAG catalysts, but affects the crystallinity of samples. Catalytic properties of the tested systems were investigated in isomerization of n-hexane. The study showed that the addition of 0.5-1 wt.% gallium to Pd/SZ systems increases their activity and improves selectivity toward the formation of a high-octane component – 2,2-dimethylbutane. The introduction of gallium in Pd/SZA systems decreases their catalytic performance, which may be related to a lower crystallinity of gallium-containing catalysts.