The present study focuses on the synthesis of high energy-density fuel pentacyclotetradecane(PCTD) through cyclodimerization followed by hydrogenolysis of norbornadiene (NBD) over mesoporoussilica-supported Co–Ni-based nanocatalyst. Catalytic materials are synthesized by incipient wetnessimpregnation method using Al-MCM-41, MCM-48 and γ-alumina as supporting materials for Co–Ni metals.The textural properties of the catalyst have been investigated through XRD, TEM and N₂ physisorption, andthe parameters concerning the reactivity of the catalyst optimized. The reaction was performed in a single pot(pressure reactor), and the structure of the product was elucidated by using FTIR and NMR techniques. Theoptimum reaction parameters (catalyst, temperature, and pressure) were developed to produce a yield of ≥85%. The physicochemical properties such as calorific value (10754 cal./g), density (1.08 g/cc), etc. wereevaluated, and these can be utilized for ramjet application.

Dimerization of NBD into a high energy-density pentacyclotetradecane fuel over mesoporous aluminosilicate supported Co–Ni nanocatalyst.