The formation, electrical conduction and catalytic behaviour of ferrospinels Cd1.0−xCoxFe2O4, 0.0 ⩽ x ⩽ 0.5

A series of Cd1.0−x-Cox-Fe2.0O4 mixed oxides and their corresponding ferrospinels (x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5) were prepared at calcination temperatures between 500 and 1000°C. X-ray diffraction and IR spectral studies were used to identify the different phases present. The electrical conduction of the samples was investigated before and after admission of 2-propanol in the temperature range 100–400 °C. The variation of the conduction activation energy (Eσ) values is discussed in terms of the semiconducting properties of the oxides and the surface concentration of ions and electrons in the ferrospinels formed as well as their magnetic properties. The catalytic activity data of the vapor-phase decomposition of 2-propanol over this series were obtained in the temperature range 250–400 °C, using a flow system technique. Correlations were attempted between the catalyst composition and the catalytic activity and selectivity. A tentative reaction mechanism consistent with the data obtained is suggested.