A reflux system for SBA-15 synthesis for the selective hydrogenation of cinnamyl aldehyde

Silica-based mesoporous materials, such as SBA-15, are important supports in the field of catalysis due to their ordered pore channels. The traditional synthesis route of SBA-15 suffers from high autogenous pressure and explosion risks, limiting its industrial production. Herein, a reflux system under ambient pressure was used for the synthesis of SBA-15. Ni nanoparticles were incorporated into the obtained materials to evaluate the quality of the SBA-15 support. The comparative performance of Ni/SBA-15H and Ni/SBA-15R validated there was negligible difference between the SBA-15 prepared by the hydrothermal method (SBA-15H) and the reflux method (SBA-15R). This revolutionary synthesis methodology provides a novel and secure route for the large-scale preparation of SBA-15.