The HDN reaction mechanisms of cyclic amines on MoO3/Al2O3 catalyst under normal H2 pressure

Reactions of cyclic amines (principally 2–6-lutidine and 2–6-lupetidine) have been investigated under normal pressure of H2 on a MoO3Al2O3 catalyst. The analysis of the different hydrocarbons and amines formed suggests two forms of adsorption, one “vertical” by the nitrogen doublet and one “horizontal” by the π-electrons of the ring. In addition, the existence of a site of reaction containing two metal atoms more or less reduced is proposed. The formation by hydrodenitrogenation of a large amount of cyclic hydrocarbons, including aromatics such as toluene, is reported for the first time.