Synthesis and characterization of nickel and molybdenum catalysts supported on alumina derived from bauxite

In this study, a natural ore (bauxite), which is characterized by its high content of various aluminum minerals, such as gypsite, , bohmite, and diaspore, AlO(OH), was used to obtain alumina ( ), which was used as a support for the catalyst. The components of the ore were studied using multiple techniques, such as The X-ray energy dispersion (EDX) technique, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) technology. Then, undesirable components that negatively affect the behavior of the prepared catalyst were removed, such as carbonates, iron, and amorphous silica, and then aluminum oxide (alumina) was prepared from the ore using a series of chemical treatments. Then the mixed catalyst consisting of (nickel/molybdenum) carried on alumina was prepared, its properties were studied, and its components were identified by measuring energy dispersion with X-rays (EDX) and ensuring the extent of its thermal stability by conducting a thermal analysis measurement. Gravimetric analysis (TGA), differential thermal analysis (DTA), measurement of the surface area of ​​the prepared catalyst (BET), scanning electron microscope (SEM) measurement, as well as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) measurements to identify the percentages of metals, and then estimating the percentage of these elements in their oxide form. KEY WORDS: Catalyst, Bauxite, Nickel, Molybdenum Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(6), 1715-1724. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i6.17