Sulfur Promotion in Au/C Catalyzed Acetylene Hydrochlorination

The formation of highly active and stable acetylene hydrochlorination catalysts is of great industrial importance. The successful replacement of the highly toxic mercuric chloride catalyst with gold has led to a flurry of research in this area. One key aspect, which led to the commercialization of the gold catalyst is the use of thiosulphate as a stabilizing ligand. This study investigates the use of a range of sulfur containing compounds as promoters for production of highly active Au/C catalysts. Promotion is observed across a range of metal sulfates, non-metal sulfates, and sulfuric acid treatments. This observed enhancement can be optimized by careful consideration of either pre- or post-treatments, concentration of dopants used, and modification of washing steps. Pre-treatment of the carbon support with sulfuric acid (0.76 m) resulted in the most active Au/C in this series with an acetylene conversion of approximate to 70% at 200 degrees C.

Automated summary

The study investigates the use of sulfur-containing compounds as promoters for producing highly active Au/C catalysts. Through careful consideration of pre- or post-treatments, concentration of dopants used, and modification of washing steps, the observed enhancement in catalytic activity can be optimized. Pre-treatment of the carbon support with sulfuric acid resulted in the most active Au/C catalyst with an acetylene conversion of around 70% at 200 degrees C.