Synthesis of γ-Al₂O₃–CeO₂ catalyst with high surface area, high stability, and less coke formation for methanol dehydration reaction process

Mesoporous nano-sized γ–Al₂O₃ and γ–Al₂O₃–CeO₂ (20 wt% CeO₂) catalysts were successfully synthesized through a sol–gel surfactant-free process, using cerium nitrate and aluminum nitrate as precursors. The obtained γ-aluminas were then characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and temperature-programmed desorption with ammonia. Afterward, the structural properties of the prepared catalysts were monitored through surface area analysis measurements. Finally, the catalytic activity of the obtained aluminas were studied in methanol dehydration reaction. Methanol conversion and selectivities to different products were measured at different reaction temperatures by gas chromatography. The optimum temperature of catalytic reaction in the presence of alumina-ceria was 300 °C due to 100% DME selectivity and 91% methanol conversion.