Facile structure-controlled synthesis of mesoporous γ-alumina: Effects of alcohols in precursor formation and calcination

We report a facile synthesis of mesoporous alumina catalysts supports with controlled pore properties by varying the alcohols used in the rinsing and gelation of boehmite/bayerite precursors derived from a controlled hydrolysis of aluminum alkoxides. X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, nitrogen gas adsorption, and comparative adsorption analysis were performed to determine the structure of these materials. After calcination at 700 degrees C for 2 h, surface areas of these synthesized alumina catalysts supports range from 180 to 260 m(2)/g, average pore widths range from 7 to 37 nm, and pore volumes range from 0.8 to 1.4 cm(3)/g. Accordingly, this synthetic method provides a facile route to the controlled synthesis of nanostructured alumina catalyst supports with customized pore structures, including a wide range of mesopore widths. (C) 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.