Hydrogenation of Fatty Acids to Fatty Alcohols over Ni-Mo/Zr-SBA-15

This study reports a sustainable Ni–Mo bimetallic catalyst supported on zirconium-modified SBA-15 for selective hydrogenation of fatty acids to high-value fatty alcohols. The catalyst enables nearly complete conversion of oleic acid to octadecanol under mild conditions and demonstrates excellent stability and recyclability. It offers a greener, cost-effective alternative to noble-metal catalysts for producing bio-renewable chemicals used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial lubricants.