Catalytic properties of BaPb1-xBixO3 perovskite oxide for partial oxidation of benzyl alcohol

Partial oxidation of benzyl alcohol is carried out on BPb1-xBixO3(x = 0-1) type perovskite oxides. Benzaldehyde and toluene are obtained as the major products when the reaction is carried out in the absence of oxygen. When th e reaction is carried out in the presence of gas phase oxygen Small amounts of benzoic acid and benzyl benzoate are also obtained. Catalysts have been characterised by XRD after the reaction. Catalyst undergoes partial decomp osition when the reaction is carried out in the absence, of gas phase oxyge n. Extent of reduction of catalyst depends on the partial pressure of oxyge n. XPS studies reveal that bismuth rich compounds are more basic. High acti vity and selectivity of bismuth rich systems have been attributed to their high basicity.