Characterization and catalytic behavior of silica-supported copper catalysts prepared by impregnation and ion-exchange methods

Two kinds of Cu/SiO2 catalysts were prepared by impregnation (IM) and ion-exchange (IE) methods, and tested in dehydrogenation of 2-butanol to methyl-ethyl-ketone. Some kinds of Cu2+ on the IE catalyst could not be reduced during the reaction, and it produced the butene. The copper oxide over the IM catalyst could be reduced during the reaction, and showed stable dehydrogenation activity for 2-butanol.