Abstract A series of Nb2O5-SiO2 supports were synthesized by sol-gel method and Pt/Nb2O5-SiO2 catalysts were prepared by impregnation method. These catalysts were examined in a 100mL stainless steel autoclave for glycerol hydrogenolysis. The physiochemical properties of the composite supports and catalysts were investigated by the techniques of X-ray diffraction, H2 temperature-programmed reduction, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, NH3 temperature-programmed desorption and in-situ CO adsorption diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy. Results demonstrated that the modification of Nb2O5 enhanced the dispersion of Pt and its interaction with the composite supports, significantly increased the amount of acid sites, thus enhanced the catalytic activity of glycerol hydrogenolysis. Pt/5Nb2O5-SiO2 catalyst with the most acid sites and optimum Pt dispersion showed the best performance in glycerol hydrogenolysis.
