Catalytic dehydration of 2-propanol over nickel phosphide immobilized on natural bentonite

This study investigated the fabrication of nickel phosphide immobilized on natural bentonite (NiP/bentonite) as a low-cost catalyst with different metal loadings (mEq/g) to produce diisopropyl ether (DIPE) as a potential gasoline additive. The catalysts were prepared using a simple wet-impregnation method. The physicochemical features of the parent natural bentonite and NiP/bentonite were analyzed using FTIR, SEM-EDX, XRD, N-2 physisorption, and catalyst acidity using the NH3 gravimetric method. The dehydration reaction was conducted under mild conditions (150 degrees C for 3 h) using a reflux system. The results suggested that the NiP species did not alter the bentonite structure while increasing its acidity and surface area properties. Using the 8 mEq/g NiP/bentonite catalyst, a DIPE product of 68.52% was achieved owing to the highly acidic sites of the catalyst and high stability over three cycles. This study highlights the potential of nickel-phosphide-supported natural bentonite in the dehydration reaction for DIPE production.

Automated summary

This study investigated the use of nickel phosphide immobilized on natural bentonite as a low-cost catalyst for diisopropyl ether (DIPE) production. The catalyst was prepared using a simple wet-impregnation method, and its physicochemical features were analyzed using various techniques. The results showed that the NiP species enhanced the acidity and surface area properties of the bentonite without altering its structure. The use of the NiP/bentonite catalyst resulted in a DIPE product yield of 68.52% with high stability over three cycles.