Abstract
The catalytic performance of Mo8V2Nb1-based mixed-oxide catalysts for ethane partial oxidation is highly sensitive to the doping of elements with redox and acid functionality. Specifically, control over product distributions to ethylene and acetic acid can be afforded via the specific pairing of redox elements (Pd, Ni, Ti) and acid elements (K, Cs, Te) and the levels at which these elements are doped. The redox element, acid element, redox/acid ratio, and dopant/host ratio were investigated using a three-level, four-factor factorial screening design to establish relationships between catalyst composition, structure, and product distribution for ethane partial oxidation. Results show that the balance between redox and acid functionality and overall dopant level is important for maximizing the formation of each product while maintaining the structural integrity of the host metal oxide. Overall, ethylene yield was maximized for a Mo8V2Nb1Ni0.0025Te0.5 composition, while acetic acid yield was maximized for a Mo8V2Nb1Ti0.005Te1 catalyst.