Catalytic Transfer Hydrogenation Reactions of Glycerol Over Zr‐Incorporated Zeolite Beta Prepared by a Mechanochemical Approach

ABSTRACT Zr‐containing zeolite beta catalysts were prepared by a post‐synthesis procedure involving a dealumination followed by a mechanochemical step and tested in the gas‐phase conversion of glycerol. The catalytic data indicate that the catalysts are active in the conversion of glycerol, promoting not only the typical dehydration but also its hydrogenolysis without an external source of hydrogen, resulting in the production of significant amounts of ethylene glycol and methanol. Partially framework‐attached (Si─O) 2 Zr═O species were identified and are suggested to play an important role in the catalytic behavior of these materials.