Metathesis of Ethylene and Trans-2-Butene over MgO Admixed WO3/SiO2 Catalysts

The performances of MgO admixed WO3/SiO2 catalysts were investigated in the cross metathesis of ethylene and 2-butene to propylene at 450 degrees C atmospheric pressure. Compared to the WO3/SiO2 + silica gel, the conversion of 2-butene and the propylene selectivity were much higher on all the WO3/SiO2 + MgO catalysts. An increased propylene yield corresponded to the decrease in 1-butene and cis-2-butene by products. The results in this study also suggest suitable method to prepare highly stable MgO catalysts in order to maximize the propylene yield.