Alkane isomerization on MoO3/ZrO2 catalysts

Molybdenum was used as an alternative to sulfate as promoter of zirconia fo r alkane isomerization reactions. It has similar effects to sulfate, tungst ate and phosphate ions, modifying the physicochemical properties of unpromo ted zirconia. Mo-promoted zirconia catalysts do not show any activity for n -C-4 isomerization. For n-C-7 isomerization, the catalytic activity depends on Mo content, crystalline structure of the support and the molybdenum oxo species present on the surface of the catalysts.