Structure and size effects in catalysis by immobilized nanoclusters of iron oxides

The activities of catalysts containing alpha-Fe2O3 or gamma-Fe2O3 nanoparticles supported on two types of silica (silica gel and layer silica) are tested in 3,4-dichlorobutene-1 isomerization and benzene alkylation by allyl chloride. gamma-Fe2O3 particles supported on layer silica are the most active catalysts for both reactions. The high activity is associated with features of inverse spinel structure of gamma-ferric oxide. The particle size and their location on the surface or interplane cavity of layer silica affect the catalytic activity. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.