Synthesis Of Ce/Cu/Nb Catalysts, by the One-Step Polymerization Method, Applied in the Selective Oxidation Reaction of Acetonitrile

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the catalytic capacity of cerium, copper and niobium oxide catalysts in the oxidation reaction of acetonitrile, in order to test the catalytic behavior, conversion and selectivity of the catalysts; evaluate the different proportions of niobium used (0, 15, 30, 50 and 75% m.m) and compare the catalytic performance of the synthesized materials with other studies present in the literature. Method: The catalysts were synthesized using the one-step polymerization method and were characterized using XRD and H2-TPR techniques. Then, they were applied in the acetonitrile oxidation reaction to be evaluated for conversion and selectivity. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed that the catalysts played a significant role in the proposed reaction, obtaining good conversion and selectivity values, including the production of N2 as the majority. Research Implications: Considering that the oxidation of acetonitrile generates polluting gases from nitrogen compounds, the research presents a method that produces an extremely low quantity of these pollutants. This method ensures better product quality, reduces energy consumption due to the lower reaction temperature and uses cheaper and more viable catalysts. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by being based on compounds not yet used together as catalysts and also for the proposed reaction. The relevance of the use of the catalyst is demonstrated through the results obtained, such as high conversions and selectivities to desirable products.