Regularities of adsorption of zinc acetate from aqueous solutions onto the surface of modified activated carbons

The dependence of the characteristics of Zn(OAc)(2)/C catalysts for vinyl acetate synthesis on the solution circulation rate, on the temperature and initial concentration of zinc acetate solution, and on the procedures for modification of activated carbons with oxidants was studied with the aim to achieve uniform distribution of the supported active component (zinc acetate). Oxidation of activated carbons with hydrogen peroxide and nitric acid increases the adsorption rate and the amount of adsorbed zinc acetate. Treatment of the support with acetic acid leads to an increase in the adsorption capacity for zinc acetate, to more uniform distribution of the active component over the surface, and to enhancement of the catalyst activity. The hydrodynamic regime of stirring in the two-phase system consisting of the support and zinc acetate solution is an important factor determining the activity and stability of the zinc acetate catalyst for vinyl acetate synthesis.