Influence of base strength on the catalytic performance of nano-sized alkaline earth metal oxides supported on carbon nanofibers

摘要

Nano-sized (3 nm) alkaline earth metal oxides supported on carbon nanofibers were prepared by a facile impregnation and heat treatment method of the corresponding nitrates. These supported catalysts showed a significant improved activity for the aldol reaction and transesterification compared to the respective bulk materials which did not show any appreciable activity. A linear correlation was found between the initial reaction rate and the strength of the basic sites as determined by CO_2 calorimetry indicating the importance of the base in the rate determining step of the reactions.