LOW-TEMPERATURE CATALYSTS FOR TOTAL OXIDATION OF N-HEXANE

Considering the importance of the catalytic combustion process for rem oval of organic pollutants from effluent streams, total oxidation of n -hexane, present in lean mixtures, was carried out on cobalt oxide cat alysts supported on silica gel. Catalysts prepared by decomposition of cobalt oxalate effectively catalyzed the reaction. Such catalysts pro ved superior to those prepared by cobalt nitrate dispersion. The activ ity and deactivation patterns of several catalysts differing in their method of preparation are discussed. Results of detailed studies using nitrogen adsorption, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spect roscopy are discussed. It is reported that the crystallite size and su rface concentration are influenced by the method of preparation.