Enhancing Catalytic Efficiency in Long-Chain Linear α-Olefin Epoxidation: A Study of CaSnO3-Based Catalysts

Abstract

This investigation explores the synthesis of advanced catalysts for epoxidizing long-chain linear α-olefins, a pivotal process in the chemical industry for generating critical intermediates. Employing a hydrothermal technique, we developed four distinct catalysts (CS-1–4), methodically modulating the Ca/Sn ratio to elucidate its impact on the catalysts’ physicochemical properties. Our research uncovered that an escalated Ca/Sn ratio induces a morphological shift from octagonal to cubic structures, concomitant with a diminution in particle size and an enhancement in specific surface area. Significantly, the CS-3 catalyst outperformed others in 1-octene epoxidation, an efficacy attributed to its augmented surface alkalinity and proliferation of medium-strength alkaline sites, likely emanating from increased surface oxygen defects. Subsequent hydrogen reduction of CS-3 further amplified these oxygen defects, yielding a 10% uptick in catalytic activity. This correlation underscores the potential of oxygen defect manipulation in optimizing catalytic efficiency. Our findings contribute a novel perspective to the development of robust, high-performance catalysts for α-olefin epoxidation, seamlessly aligning with the principles of sustainable chemistry.