Microwave-assisted catalytic oxidative dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene on iron oxide loaded carbon nanotubes

The catalytic performance of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) modified by iron oxide has been investigated for oxidative dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene in an integral fixed-bed reactor conventionally-heated and under microwave-assisted conditions. The morphology and microstructural characteristics of the obtained composites before and after the catalytic reaction were characterized by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The content 3wt.% of iron oxide supported on MWCNTs was found optimal in respect of the ethylbenzene conversion and styrene selectivity. All prepared composites were found more selective in a microwave field in the temperature range 380-450 °C. The transformation of Fe₂O₃ into Fe nanocrystals encapsulated by polyhedral graphite shells was observed only under microwave-assisted reaction conditions.