Oxidation of methanol on the surfaces of copper-silver alloys

The catalytic oxidation of methanol on copper, silver and copper - silver alloys has been studied in a large range of temperature changes, alloy compositions, reaction gas mixture compositions and flow rates. A reaction mechanism is proposed and the reaction conditions providing for highest catalytic activity and selectivity are outlined. It is possible using the scheme, to explain why copper is not so suitable as a catalyst as silver. A correlation has been established between the phase diagram of the bimetallic copper-silver system and its catalytic activity. Some copper-silver alloys prove suitable to be used as industrial catalysts for the oxidation of methanol to formaldehyde.