Selective hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds on supported Ru-Sn catalysts

Selective catalytic hydrogenation of unsaturated carbonylic compounds to unsaturated alcohols on bi-metallic Ru-Sn catalysts/support was studied. The catalysts were prepared by the sol–gel method and the method of co-impregnation with the objective to evaluate selected parameters of preparation, i.e., the amount of modifying tin and the support (TiO₂, SiO₂, Al₂O₃), on their catalytic activity and selectivity. A significant modifying effect of tin was proved, especially its positive effect on the selectivity. Concerning the selectivity as well as the activity, Al₂O₃ was found to be the optimal support. Furthermore, the effect of a substrate was studied with results proving suitability of this catalytic system for hydrogenation of unsaturated aldehydes; however, the utilization for selective hydrogenation of unsaturated ketones was found inadequate.