Alternative synthesis of bulk and supported nickel phosphide from the thermal decomposition of hypophosphites

This paper presents an alternative method for the preparation of bulk and supported nickel phosphide by the heat treatment of a mixed salt precursor (nickel chloride and sodium hypophosphite) in a static protecting gas atmosphere up to 300 degrees C. After reduction at 500 degrees C. a Ni2P/MCM-41 catalyst exhibits good hydrodesulfurization activity for dibenzothiophene with a turnover frequency at 330 degrees C of 1.1 x 10(-3) s(-1). (C) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.