New composite catalysts for the synthesis of acetonitrile from ethanol and ammonia, prepared using calcium aluminates (Talyum)

Abstract

Experiments on direct synthesis of acetonitrile from ethanol, ammonia, and hydrogen at 513–573 K in the presence of new Cu-, Cu–Zn–(Zr)-, and Cu–Mg-containing composite catalysts prepared using calcium aluminates (Talyum, technical-grade calcium aluminate) were performed The following results were reached: ethanol conversion 96.0–99.0%, selectivity with respect to acetonitrile 99.0%, and acetonitrile output exceeding the reported level by a factor of 1.2–1.4. The new technology can be implemented in industry.