Catalysis Letters, Vol.95, No.3-4, 163-166, 2004
Preparation of ethylene glycol via catalytic hydration with highly efficient supported niobia catalyst
Ethylene glycol was prepared by hydration of ethylene oxide over highly efficient supported niobia catalyst prepared by chemical vapor deposition. The catalyst showed much better hydration performance in activity and selectivity than other solid acid catalysts. An ethylene glycol yield of 91% was achieved at optimal conditions.