Bimetallic Zn and Hf on Silica Catalysts for the Conversion of Ethanol to 1,3-Butadiene

Silica-supported catalysts for the conversion of ethanol to 1,3-butadiene were investigated. The combination of Hf(IV) and Zn(II) resulted in a stable, active, and selective catalyst in which the Zn(II) effectively suppressed the dehydration activity of Hf(IV); the catalyst preparation method plays a crucial role. Using the crystalline Zn-silicate hemimorphite as an alternative Zn(II) source proved to be even more successful in suppressing ethanol dehydration.