Catalysis over bimetallic zeolites: Influence of copper on the catalytic behaviour of nickel in sodium and hydrogen Y zeolites

Abstract The catalytic activity of a range of bimetallic nickel/copper zeolite catalysts prepared from NaY and NH 4 Y as starting materials has been investigated; the reactions chosen were alkylation of toluene with methanol and the hydrogenation of benzene. The samples prepared from NH 4 Y did not reduce benzene although they contained metallic nickel; this is attributed to nickel migration and agglomeration. All the catalysts were active in alkylation and there is evidence that a Cu:Ni ratio of 3:2 favours the formation of intrazeolitic clusters and confers increased acidity on the catalysts.