Influence of Parameters on Glycerol Hydrogenolysis over a Cu/Al2O3 Catalyst

The influence of technological parameters like hydrogen pressure, temperature, glycerol concentration in aqueous solution, amount of catalyst, stirring speed, and reaction time on glycerol hydrogenolysis to 1,2-propanediol over a Cu/Al2O3 catalyst prepared by coprecipitation was investigated. Functions describing the process were glycerol conversion as well as selectivity to 1,2-propanediol and to by-products in the liquid and gas phase. The structure and properties of synthesized Cu/Al2O3 were characterized by X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis, BET surface area, average pore volume, and pore diameter. Catalyst recycle studies were also performed.