Mechanisms of methylcyclopentane ring opening over platinum-alumina catalysts

Ring opening of methylcyclopentane has been investigated over mono-functional platinum/ silica and acidic alumina catalysts as well as a dual-functional platinum/alumina reforming catalyst. Both platinum and the acidic alumina catalyze ring opening. The acid-catalyzed ring-opening reaction occurs by direct opening of the methylcyclopentane ring and is inhibited by methylcyclopentenes. The acid-catalyzed reaction leading to an acyclic olefin is proposed to proceed via a protonated ring structure and an acyclic carbonium ion.