Synthesis and characterization of Pt/MgO catalysts and their use in n-hexane conversion

Eight of magnesium oxide-supported Pt catalysts were prepared by impregnation following synthesis of the oxide by calcination of magnesium hydroxide and subsequent rehydration–calcination of the solid obtained. This procedure substantially increases both the specific surface area and the basicity of MgO. The Pt catalysts thus obtained were characterized in terms of structure and surface properties by use of various instrumental techniques (XRD, TPD, TPR and gas adsorption). The catalysts contained variable amounts of Pt and were tested in n-hexane conversion, where, as expected from basic solids, they proved specially selective towards dehydrogenation and cyclization products.