Hydrogenolysis of Alkanes on Bimetallic Catalysts

Its reputation for structure-sensitivity has made alkane hydrogenolysis attractive for investigation using bimetallic catalysts, and there is an extensive literature on the subject. Much of it however relates only to the ability of a pair of metals to form and retain bimetallic particles, and adds little to the understanding of reaction mechanisms. Sometimes for example the calcination of two precursor compounds 

The discoverythat bulk mutual solubility is not an essential pre-requisite for the formation of a stable surface bimetallic phase opened the way for extensive research, particularly on the ruthenium-copper system. The platinum-rhenium system has also proved of interest because of its use in petroleum reforming, but the platinum-iridium system, which is of comparable importance, has not been so widely examined with the smaller alkanes. It is convenient to classify the material to be considered in the following way. 

Metals of Groups 8 to 10 and Groups 13 to 14. Metals of Groups 8 to 10 and Groups 4 to 7. Metal pairs formed within Groups 8 to 10. 

Emphasis will be placed on those studies that illuminate reaction mechanisms. 

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