Promoting Effect of Aluminum Oxide on Cu/ZrO ₂ ‐Al ₂ O ₃ Composite Catalyst for Selective Hydrogenolysis of Glycerol to 1,2‐Propanediol

The glycerol hydrogenolysis reaction is a critical connection between the biodiesel industry and the production of high‐value‐added chemicals, underscoring its significant development potential and substantial social value. In this study, we synthesized a series of Cu‐ZrO 2 ‐Al 2 O 3 catalysts and investigated the influence of Al 2 O 3 on the dispersion and chemical states of Cu species, the surface acid–base properties of the ZrO 2 ‐Al 2 O 3 support, and the overall catalytic performance for the selective hydrogenolysis of glycerol to 1,2‐propanediol (1,2‐PDO). The results indicate that the addition of appropriate amounts of Al 2 O 3 enhances the dispersion of copper active sites within the catalyst, reduces both the quantity and strength of basic sites, and increases the proportion of medium‐strength acid sites on the surface. The improved dispersion of Cu active species, an optimal balance between acidity and alkalinity, along with a synergistic interaction between Cu active species and surface acid–base sites collectively facilitates the smooth progression of the dehydration–hydrogenation pathway involving acidic sites. Consequently, the optimal Cu/ZrO 2 ‐10%Al 2 O 3 catalyst exhibits excellent catalytic capability and cyclic stability under mild conditions, achieving a glycerol conversion rate of 94.1% and a selectivity toward 1,2‐PDO of 96.0%. Furthermore, these copper‐based catalysts may have potential applications in the efficient exploitation and utilization of biomass resource.