2714.     PLOTNIKOV, V. A., AND KAGANOVA, E. M.  [Decomposition of Methanol in Presence of Copper Catalysts.]  Jour. Chem. Ind. (U.S.S.R.), vol. 7, 1930, pp. 672-674; Chem. Abs., vol. 26, 1932, p. 81.

        Pure Cu as catalyst is very active, but the degree of activity and stability of the catalyst vary with the kind of initial material; a catalyst prepared by reduction of Kahlbaum CuO wire loses its activity when heated 15 min. to 300°, while that obtained from Merck’s CuO granules an stand 3 hr. at 350° without injury.  94% molecular CuO+6% molecular V₂O₅ reduced at 200° 3.5 hr. by H₂ gives a highly efficient catalyst, effecting 100% decomposition at 230°-340°, but, besides H₂ and CO, CO₂ and CH₄ are generated; for synthesis this catalyst cannot, therefore, be of use.  Activation of catalysts by addition of ZnO and Cr₂O₃ gives the best results with 90% molecular Cr₂O₂.  Increase in Cr₂O₃ effects a decrease in activity; 100% decomposition was obtained at 200°-210° with CO₂ and CH₄ amounting to about 1% each.  Addition of Cd to this catalyst lowers its efficiency to a negligible quantity.