Optimum ratio of K2O to CeO2 in a wet-chemical method prepared catalysts for ethylbenzene dehydrogenation

Fe₂O₃–K₂O–CeO₂ catalysts with various ratios of K₂O to CeO₂ were prepared by the wet-chemical method. Their phase compositions, reducibility, valence states of elements and catalytic activities for ethylbenzene dehydrogenation were studied. The results demonstrated that when the weight ratio of K₂O: CeO₂ was 1.40, the catalyst had highest ethylbenzene conversion and styrene selectivity, which were attributed to the optimization of active phase content and electron transfer ability, etc. Further, higher CeO₂ content not only enhanced styrene selectivity, but also prolonged the life cycle of catalysts.