Ethylene oligomerization over Ni-containing mesostructured catalysts with MCM-41, MCM-48 and SBA-15 topologies

Nickel ion exchanged MCM-41, MCM-48 and SBA-15 mesostructured materials with a controlled concentration of nickel and acidic sites were prepared, characterized, and successfully used as catalysts in the ethylene oligomerization performed in slurry batch mode (T = 150°C, p = 3.5 MPa). Larger pores or a 3D pore system, as well as an equilibrated balance between acid and nickel ion sites were very favorable for the oligomerization process.