The selective synthesis of p-tert-butylcyclohexanol (PTBCHOL) from p-tert-butylphenol
(PTBP) via hydrogenation is an important catalytic system in fine
chemical synthesis. In this study, a bimetallic Ru–Ni@RGO nanocatalyst
was engineered and evaluated for its effectiveness in achieving high
selectivity and conversion rates. The Ru–Ni nanometals were
supported on reduced graphene oxide (RGO) using an in situ reduction
method, employing ethylene glycol as a green solvent and reducing
agent. By varying the amounts of Ru and Ni, the impact on product
selectivity was assessed, and it was found that 30% Ru–Ni (2:1)
@RGO catalyst performed exceptionally well. Under optimized conditions
of 15 atm and 80 °C, the catalyst achieved 100% conversion and
100% selectivity in 2 h. The process parameters were carefully optimized,
the catalyst thoroughly characterized, and a kinetic study done to
obtain activation energy. 10% Ru–Ni (2:1) @RGO catalyst demonstrated
remarkable activity, selectivity, and robustness.