Abstract: Amorphous Ni-B/γ-Al₂O₃ catalyst 1 is prepared with chemical reduction by KBH₄ solution after wetness impregnation and desiccation at 70 ℃ first and then at 110 ℃ for thorough water removal. Its higher catalytic activity than amorphous Ni-B/γ-Al₂O₃ catalyst 2, prepared by conventional one-step desiccation procedure at 110 ℃, is identified in liquid-phase benzene hydrogenation to cyclohexane. Both catalysts are characterized by XRDand SEM, Ni-B/γ-Al₂O₃ catalyst 1 has a higher active specific surface area and dispersion degree, which can be assigned to more effective distribution of nickel salt over the support during desiccation, thus resulting in its superior activity in benzene hydrogenation.

Key words: Ni-B/γ-Al₂O₃ catalyst, Amorphous alloy, Benzene hydrogenation, Dispersion degree