Abstract
In this work, Ru/D-type catalysts (Ru = 0.5–1.5%) were investigated using benzene hydrogenation as a model reaction. Structural and morphological characterization was carried out by SEM/EDX, TEM (with particle size distribution in the 1–10 nm range), X-ray diffraction, and nitrogen adsorption. It was found that the porous framework of the support is preserved; upon Ru introduction, the active phase is uniformly dispersed with high dispersion (mainly 3–5 nm particles, with 7–10 nm aggregates appearing at higher loadings). Textural parameters slightly decrease with increasing Ru content (from 60 to 45 m²/g), which is associated with partial pore filling; meanwhile, XRD patterns do not reveal distinct Ru reflections, confirming the high dispersion of the metal. Kinetic measurements (rate–hydrogen uptake) showed a pronounced dependence on both temperature and Ru loading: at 130 °C, the maximum rate for 1.0% Ru/D was ~40·10-1 mol·s-6, and the activation energy was estimated at 40 kJ·mol-1; the activity of 1.5% Ru/D was about twice as high compared to 0.5% Ru/D. These results confirm the efficiency of Ru/D systems in the hydrogenation of aromatic compounds and indicate that a Ru loading of 1.0–1.5% provides an optimal balance between dispersion and catalytic activity.