Co‐Impregnated MgAl Layered Double Hydroxide as an Efficient Catalyst for Glycerol Oligomerization

ABSTRACT Cobalt(II) acetylacetonate was impregnated onto MgAl layered double hydroxide (Co/MgAl LDH) to evaluate its catalytic activity in glycerol oligomerization. Comprehensive characterization confirmed cobalt impregnation by ICP‐OES, and XRD indicated increased crystallite size. Thermogravimetric analysis showed enhanced thermal stability, and textural analyses revealed decreases in surface area and pore diameter. CO 2 ‐TPD further identified a range of basic site distributions and strengths, supporting the catalytic potential. The study also included a recycling evaluation, with the characterization of spent catalysts by TGA and XPS. Co/MgAl LDH showed higher glycerol conversion and oligomer selectivity than MgAl LDH and CoAl mixed oxides, reaching 68% conversion and 27% diglycerol selectivity after four cycles. Its enhanced basicity and optimal conditions (4 wt% catalyst, 240 °C, 8 h) contributed to this performance. Recyclability tests showed good activity for up to three cycles, followed by a decline due to impurity buildup blocking active sites. These findings highlight the potential of Co/MgAl LDH as an efficient catalyst for the glycerol oligomerization process.