Ethylene and propylene production from ethanol over Sr or Bi modified ZrO2 catalysts

The Sr or Bi modified ZrO2 catalysts were prepared by the co-precipitation method. The synthesized catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, temperature programmed desorption, and N2 adsorption/desorption methods. All the synthesized catalysts were tested in the conversion of ethanol to light olefins. The results show that Sr or Bi modified ZrO2 catalysts have a remarkable effect on the surface area, crystalline phase, and acid–base properties. The total maximum yield of ethylene and propylene reaches 80.8% over Sr(1)/ZrO2. The catalytic stability over Sr(1)/ZrO2 is better than ZrO2 catalyst for the conversion of ethanol. The high catalytic selectivity of ethylene and propylene over Sr or Bi modified ZrO2 corresponds to the introduction of O vacancies. The mechanism may be related to acid and basic sites and redox reaction.