Selectivity aspects in the multi‐phase hydrogenation of α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes over supported noble metal catalysts: Part II

Abstract

Abstract The hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde to cinnamyl alcohol over a platinum on carbon catalyst could be intensified and made more selective in a two‐phase system using toluene and aqueous alkaline solution. Enhancement in the selectivity with respect to citronellol was noticed in the two‐phase hydrogenation of citronellal, while the reaction rate was marginally affected. Potassium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide were found to be efficient promoters.