High-performance B2O3/SiO2-TiO2 catalyst for propane oxidation to olefins

Conventional mixed metal oxide catalysts for oxidative dehydrogenation of propane (ODHP) often face challenges in balancing propane conversion and olefin selectivity. In contrast, boron-containing catalysts can achieve higher selectivity for olefins. In this study, B₂O₃/SiO₂-TiO₂ catalysts were prepared via mechanical mixing and calcination, demonstrating high activity in ODHP with propylene and ethylene as primary products. At 620 °C, propane conversion reached 60.8 %, with total olefin selectivity of 70.2 %. Unlike h-BN or BO_x/carrier catalysts, B₂O₃ was directly used as both feedstock and active component, eliminating the need for an induction period. The mixed SiO₂-TiO₂ carrier anchored boron species on the TiO₂ surface, reducing boron loss and enhancing stability compared to pure SiO₂-supported catalysts. These results highlight the potential of B₂O₃/SiO₂-TiO₂ for efficient propane oxidative dehydrogenation to olefins.