Al‐Doped FeVO4 Nanoparticles for Vapour Phase Methylation of Phenol

Al substituted FeVO4 catalysts were prepared by co‐precipitation method. The catalysts were characterized by X‐Ray Diffraction, Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller surface area analysis, Thermo gravimetric–Differential thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The Al content increased the acidic character of the catalyst. The catalytic activity was evaluated for methylation of phenol and showed high activity and selectivity. 2% Al promoted FeVO4, caused the conversion of phenol and selectivity towards 2,6‐xylenol to reach 98% and 94% respectively. The catalyst has good stability, TOS studies and characterization of spent catalyst was done. A novel Al doped FeVO4 nanoparticles were prepared by co‐precipitation surfactant free route. They served as excellent catalysts for methylation of phenol in vapour phase with 100% ortho selectivity. The conversion is dependent on the surface acidity of the catalysts. The acidity was modified by Al doping, tuned 2 wt % doped Al‐ FeVO4 shows 98% conversion and 94% selectivity towards 2,6‐ xylenol product. Characterized samples revealed that moderate strength acid sites were mainly responsible for the high activity.