Catalytic Hydrogenolysis of Xylitol Aqueous Solution Over Ni–La/AC Catalysts

An efficient catalyst of Ni-La/AC was prepared for hydrogenolysis of xylitol in aqueous media without adding any alkaline additives. 83.6% of xylitol conversion can be achieved with 65.5% selectivity of low-molecular-weight polyols. The catalysts were characterized by HRTEM, H-2-TPD, CO2-TPD and H-2-TPR. The results showed that the catalyst surface properties have been modified via the preparation process. Studies also demonstrated that the introduction of lanthanum to the catalyst has promoted the H-2 dissociating ability on Ni metal. The reaction route of xylitol hydrogenolysis was further studied by conducting control experiments.