Hydrolytic decomposition of dichlorodifluoromethane on modified zirconium oxide surfaces

The hydrolytic decomposition of dichlorodifluoromethane (CFC-12) on various modified zirconium oxide surfaces has been studied. The reaction was carried out under flow conditions at 500°C. Complete CFC-12 conversion and long-time stability of the catalysts were achieved accompanied by a limitation of the undesired CFC-13 formation. A maximum CFC-12 conversion was observed on catalysts of sulfated zirconia or zirconia obtained from temperature-controlled calcination of zirconium oxide hydrate. The reaction depends on the presence or in situ formation of Brønsted acid sites. FTIR-photoacoustic measurements were performed on pyridine complexes chemisorbed on the catalyst surface in order to analyze the changes in the catalyst's acidity. The effects of the temperature and water in the reaction gas on the catalyzed decomposition of CFC-12 are examined.