Preparation of hierarchical nanosized Silicalite-1 supported ZnCe catalysts for catalytic conversion of ethanol to 1,3-butadiene

ETB remains challenged by the relatively low yield of 1,3-butadiene (BD), despite its potential as a cost-effective route in chemical production. In this study, a series of nanostructured xZnyCe/S-1 catalysts were synthesized via a hydrothermal method combined with incipient wetness impregnation for the ETB reaction. Characterization results (including SEM, TEM, and N 2 adsorption-desorption) revealed a positive correlation between BD yield and the hierarchical nanostructure as well as the synergistic effect of multiple active sites. Among them, the 6Zn4Ce/S-1 catalyst exhibited excellent ETB performance under mild reaction conditions (375 °C, 101.325 kPa, WHSV = 5 h −1 ), achieving a BD selectivity of 50.9%.