Unique catalytic properties of titanosilicates for oxidation of polyalcohols

Abstract

The catalytic performances of titanosilicates, TS-1, Ti-beta and Ti-MWW, in the oxidation of glycerol were investigated. TS-1 exhibited the highest conversion of glycerol among the titanosilicates used and gave a higher selectivity to dihydroxyacetone than glyceraldehydes.  By the oxidations of C3-based alcohols 1-propanol, 2-propanol, 1,2-propandiol and 1,3-propandiol as a control, TS-1 preferentially oxidized the secondary -OH group, not primary -OH group, in the three -OH groups of glycerol.