A porous molding comprising a spinel

Abstract

The present invention relates to a novel molding having a fine-tuned porosity. In particular, the present invention relates to a novel molding comprising a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula M1M2 2O4, wherein M1 comprises one or more divalent elements M1, wherein M2 comprises one or more trivalent elements M2, wherein the mixed metal oxide comprises a crystalline phase having a spinel structure, and wherein the molding has a total pore volume in the range of from 0.10 to 0.90 ml / g. Further, the present invention relates to a process for preparing a novel molding, in particular said novel molding, and a molding obtained or obtainable by said process. Yet further, the present invention relates to use of said molding as a catalyst or catalyst support.

Description

[0001] A porous molding comprising a spinel

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to a molding comprising a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula M1M22O4, wherein M1comprises one or more divalent elements M1, wherein M2comprises one or more trivalent elements M2, wherein the mixed metal oxide comprises a crystalline phase having a spinel structure, and wherein the molding has a total pore volume in the range of from 0.10 to 0.90 ml / g. Further, the present invention relates to a process for preparing a novel molding, the molding obtainable or obtained by said process, as well as use of the novel molding of the present invention.

[0004] INTRODUCTION

[0005] Typically, a catalyst comprises a support material and a catalytic material loaded thereon. The support materials used are usually in form of a molding, which may have a specific shape. The loading can be conducted with known methods, in particular by impregnation, and more specifically by incipient wet impregnation, e.g. using a metal solution. For achieving a homogeneous loading distribution of the catalytic material, the soaking behavior of a support material is crucial.

[0006] To homogeneously impregnate a molding with a metal solution might be challenging due to the non-equal distribution of the metal solution in the molding. Such non-equal distribution can lead to an unwanted core-shell structure, wherein a higher density of metals is observed in the shell. This can lead to a stronger sintering of these metal centers when used in a catalytic process.

[0007] CA 1189052 relates to a method of producing catalysts or catalyst supports having both high surface area and large pore sizes, wherein said method particularly comprises mixing a metal oxide with water and an acid to form a dilute metal gel consisting of a loose three dimensional network of oxide containing a large amount of water evenly dispersed throughout.

[0008] US 4558031 relates to a high porosity catalyst and discloses a method of producing catalysts or catalyst supports having both high surface area and large pore sizes which particularly comprises mixing an alumina with water and nitric acid to form an alumina gel consisting of a loose three dimensional network, the acid being present in an amount of at least 250 parts of 70 % HNO3 per 100 parts of alumina.

[0009] EP 0210681 A1 relates to a catalyst suitable for reduction and oxidation reactions, the catalyst comprising a magnesium-aluminate spinel in combination with copper, cobalt, compounds of copper or cobalt or mixture thereof, wherein the spinel-based carrier optionally comprises an oxide of a secondary bivalent metal. WO 94 / 16798 A1 relates to a process for catalytically decomposing nitrous oxide pure or contained in gaseous mixtures at 200 to 900 °C and pressures of 0.1 and 20 bar, by using a catalyst prepared by combining CUAI2O4 with tin, lead, an element of the II. main or subgroup of the periodic table of elements as oxide or salt or in the elementary form, and calcining at 300 to 1300 °C and at a pressure from 0.1 to 200 bars.

[0010] GB 1377191 A relates to a catalyst comprising metallic cobalt or cobalt oxide or both supported on a mixed oxide material having predominantly a spinel structure and being substantially free of uncombined oxide capable of forming a spinel with cobalt oxide, i.e. containing less than 5% wt. of any divalent or a tetravalent oxide capable of forming such a spinel or less than 1 % wt. of any trivalent oxide capable of forming such a spinel.

[0011] Thus, there was a need for providing a molding having a fine-tuned porosity, preferably for providing a molding having an increased porosity. Further, it was an object of the present invention to provide a process for preparing a molding having a fine-tuned porosity, preferably for preparing a molding having an increased porosity, and more preferably for preparing a molding allowing a homogeneous distribution of metal ions therein.

[0012] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] Thus, it was an object of the present invention to provide a novel molding comprising a mixed metal oxide having a spinel structure, wherein the molding has a fine-tuned porosity. In particular, it was an object of the present invention to provide a novel molding having an increased porosity, which particularly allows a homogeneous impregnation with a metal solution. Further, it was an object of the present invention to provide a process for preparing a novel molding, wherein the process comprises a pre-calcination step, a treatment with an acid, and a final calcination step.

[0014] It has surprisingly been found that a process comprising the steps of calcining the molding and subsequent treatment thereof with an acid, leads to a molding allowing a significantly improved distribution of the metal solution throughout the whole molding. It was particularly found that the porosity, especially the total pore volume, of the molding can be adjusted and fine-tuned, and in particular increased, when treated accordingly. Thus, it was found that upon treating a pre-cal- cined molding with an acid improved significantly the soaking properties of the molding. This treatment particularly allows impregnating moldings with a demanding shape. In particular, moldings having a low surface to volume ratio can be impregnated homogeneously.

[0015] Said effect is illustrated in figure 3. Two sample moldings were impregnated with a metal solution, calcined and then cut in half. The sample molding shown in figure 3A was not treated according to the present invention, whereas the sample molding shown in figure 3B was treated in accordance with the present invention prior to the impregnation. As can be seen from figures 3A and 3B the sample molding which was not treated with an aqueous solution comprising an acid in accordance with the present invention is not homogeneously impregnated, indicated by a different coloring. In contrast thereto, a uniform coloring for the sample molding shown in figure 3B indicates a homogeneous impregnation.

[0016] Therefore, the present invention relates to a molding comprising a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula M1M22O4, wherein M1comprises one or more divalent elements M1, wherein M2comprises one or more trivalent elements M2, wherein the mixed metal oxide comprises a crystalline phase having a spinel structure, wherein the crystalline phase having a spinel structure is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.2, wherein the molding has a total pore volume in the range of from 0.10 to 0.90 ml / g, wherein the total pore volume is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.4.

[0017] It is preferred that M1is selected from groups 2, 10, 11 and 12 of the periodic table of elements, wherein M1is more preferably selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ni, Cu, Zn, Mn, Co, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ni, Cu, Zn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably from the group consisting of Mg, Zn, Cu, and mixtures thereof, more preferably from the group consisting of Mg, Zn, and mixtures thereof, wherein M1more preferably is Mg.

[0018] It is preferred that M2is selected from groups 5, 6, 7, 8 and 13 of the periodic table of elements, wherein M2is more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, Fe, V, Mn, Co, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, Fe, V, Mn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, V, Mn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, and mixtures of two or more thereof, wherein M2more preferably is Al.

[0019] It is preferred that the molding comprises 10 weight- % or less, more preferably 5 weight-% or less, more preferably 1 .0 weight-% or less, more preferably 0.1 weight-% or less, more preferably 0.01 weight-% or less of M1O, preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.2, based on the total weight of the one or more divalent elements M1, calculated as M1O, contained in the molding, wherein the total weight of the one or more divalent elements M1, calculated as M1O, in the molding is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.6.

[0020] It is preferred that the molding comprises 10 weight-% or less, more preferably 5 weight-% or less, more preferably 1 weight-% or less, more preferably 0.1 weight-% or less, more preferably 0.01 weight-% or less, of M22O3, preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.2, based on the total weight of the one or more trivalent elements M2, calculated as M22O3, contained in the molding, wherein the total weight of the one or more divalent elements M2, calculated as M220S, contained in the molding is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .6. It is preferred that the mixed metal oxide has a crystallinity in the range of 50 to 100 %, more preferably of 60 to 100 %, more preferably of 70 to 95 %, more preferably of 80 to 90 %, wherein the crystallinity is determined according to Reference Example 1 .2.

[0021] In the case where the mixed metal oxide has a crystallinity in the range of 50 to 100 %, it is preferred that from 50 to 100 %, more preferably from 70 to 100 %, more preferably from 95 to 100 %, of the crystalline phase has the spinel structure as determined by XRD, preferably as determined according to Reference Example 1.2.

[0022] It is preferred that the molding exhibits an X-ray diffraction pattern comprising at least the following reflections: wherein 100 % relates to the intensity of the maximum peak in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern, wherein the X-ray diffraction pattern is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .2, more preferably comprising at least the following reflections: wherein 100 % relates to the intensity of the maximum peak in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern, wherein the X-ray diffraction pattern is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .2, more preferably comprising at least the following reflections: wherein 100 % relates to the intensity of the maximum peak in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern, wherein the X-ray diffraction pattern is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .2, wherein M1is more preferably Mg and wherein M2is more preferably Al. It is preferred that the molding has a median pore diameter in the range of from 0.001 to 0.1 pm, more preferably in the range of from 0.005 to 0.05 pm, more preferably in the range of from 0.02 to 0.04 pm, more preferably in the range of from 0.027 to 0.035 pm, more preferably in the range of from 0.028 to 0.034 pm, wherein the pore size distribution is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .5.

[0023] It is preferred that the molding has a water adsorption in the range of from 10 to 80 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 30 to 60 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 40 to 50 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 43 to 47 weight-%, wherein the water adsorption is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.1.

[0024] It is preferred that the molding has a BET specific surface area in the range of from 20.0 to 150.0 m2 / g, more preferably in the range of from 30.0 to 90.0 m2 / g, more preferably in the range of from 40.0 to 65.0 m2 / g, more preferably in the range of from 47.0 to 49.0 m2 / g, wherein the BET specific surface area is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .3.

[0025] It is preferred that the molding has a total pore volume in the range of from 0.18 to 0.75 ml / g, more preferably in the range of from 0.25 to 0.60 ml / g, more preferably in the range of from 0.33 to 0.53 ml / g, more preferably in the range of from 0.37 to 0.49 ml / g, more preferably in the range of from 0.40 to 0.46 ml / g, wherein the total pore volume is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .4.

[0026] It is preferred that the molding further comprises one or more metals M3, wherein M3is selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ru, Os, Co, Rh, Ir, Ni, Pd, Pt, Cu, Ag, Mo, Sn and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably from the group consisting of Fe, Ru, and mixtures of two or more thereof, wherein the one or more metals M3are more preferably supported on the mixed metal oxide.

[0027] In the case wherein the molding further comprises comprises one or more metals M3, wherein M3is selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ru, Os, Co, Rh, Ir, Ni, Pd, Pt, Cu, Ag, Mo, Sn and mixtures of two or more thereof, it is preferred that the molding comprises 20 weight-% or less, more preferably 10 weight-% or less, more preferably 5 weight-% or less, of the one or more metals M3, calculated as elements, based on the sum of the weights of the one or more divalent elements M1, calculated as M1O, and the one or more trivalent elements M2, calculated as M220S, wherein the sum of the weights of the one or more divalent elements M1, calculated as M1O, and the one or more trivalent elements M2, calculated as M22O3, contained in the molding is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .6.

[0028] Further in the case wherein the molding further comprises one or more metals M3, wherein M3is selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ru, Os, Co, Rh, Ir, Ni, Pd, Pt, Cu, Ag, Mo, Sn and mixtures of two or more thereof, it is preferred that the one or more metals M3are homogeneously dispersed throughout the molding. It is preferred that from 85 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 90 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 95 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 98 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 99 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 99.9 to 100 weight-%, of the molding consist of M1, M2, O, H, and the optional one or more metals M3.

[0029] It is preferred that from 85 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 90 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 95 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 98 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 99 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 99.9 to 100 weight-%, of the molding consist of the mixed metal oxide and the optional one or more metals M3.

[0030] It is preferred that the molding is an extrudate, a tablet, or a granule.

[0031] In the case wherein the molding is an extrudate, a tablet, or a granule, it is preferred that the extrudate or the tablet has a cross-section, wherein the cross-section is circular, hexagonal, rectangular, quadratic, triangular, oval, a star-shaped polygon, or cloverleaf-shaped, more preferably circular, hexagonal, rectangular, quadratic, triangular, oval, a star-shaped polygon having 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 tips, a trilobe, a quadrilobe or a hexalobe, more preferably circular, hexagonal, rectangular, quadratic, triangular, oval, a star-shaped polygon having 3 or 4 tips, a trilobe, a quadrilobe or a hexalobe.

[0032] It is preferred that the molding is a tablet having a cross-section, wherein the cross-section is a quadrilobe.

[0033] In the case wherein the molding is a tablet having a cross-section, wherein the cross-section is a quadrilobe, it is preferred that the tablet has a thickness, wherein the thickness is in the range of from 2.0 to 13.0 mm, more preferably in the range of from 5.0 to 10.0 mm, more preferably in the range of from 6.5 to 9.0 mm.

[0034] Further in the case wherein the molding is a tablet having a cross-section, it is preferred that the tablet has a diameter D in the range of from 5 to 20 mm, more preferably in the range of from 7 to 17 mm, more preferably in the range of from 9 to 15 mm.

[0035] It is preferred that the molding is a tablet having a cross-section, wherein the cross-section is a hexalobe.

[0036] In the case wherein the molding is a tablet having a cross-section, wherein the cross-section is a hexalobe, it is preferred that the tablet has a thickness, wherein the thickness is in the range of from 2.0 to 15.0 mm, more preferably in the range of from 5.0 to 12.0 mm, more preferably in the range of from 8.0 to 9.0 mm.

[0037] Further in the case wherein the molding is a tablet having a cross-section, wherein the crosssection is a hexalobe, it is preferred that the tablet has a diameter D in the range of from 5 to 25 mm, more preferably in the range of from 12 to 19 mm, more preferably in the range of from 14 to 17 mm.

[0038] Further, the present invention relates to a process for preparing a molding, preferably for preparing a molding according to any one of the particular and preferred embodiments disclosed herein, the process comprising

[0039] (i) providing one or more sources for M1O and M22O3, wherein M1stands for one or more divalent elements and M2stands for one or more trivalent elements;

[0040] (ii) molding the one or more sources obtained from (i);

[0041] (iii) calcining the molding obtained from (ii) in a gas atmosphere;

[0042] (iv) treating the molding obtained from (iii) with an acid;

[0043] (v) calcining the molding obtained from (iv) in a gas atmosphere.

[0044] It is preferred that M1is selected from groups 2, 10, 11 and 12 of the periodic table of elements, wherein M1is more preferably selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ni, Cu, Zn, Mn, Co, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ni, Cu, Zn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably from the group consisting of Mg, Zn, Cu, and mixtures thereof, more preferably from the group consisting of Mg, Zn, and mixtures thereof, wherein M1more preferably is Mg.

[0045] It is preferred that M2is selected from groups 5, 6, 7, 8 and 13 of the periodic table of elements, wherein M2is more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, Fe, V, Mn, Co, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, Fe, V, Mn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, V, Mn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, and mixtures of two or more thereof, wherein M2more preferably is Al.

[0046] It is preferred that the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3 comprise, preferably consist of, one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of oxides of M1, hydroxides of M1, carbonates of M1, hydrogencarbonates of M1, hydroxy carbonates of M1, oxides of M2, hydroxides of M2, carbonates of M2, hydrogencarbonates of M2, hydroxy carbonates of M2, mixed metal oxides of M1and M2, mixed metal hydroxy carbonates of M1and M2, and mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0047] It is preferred that the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3 comprise, preferably consist of, one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of mixed metal oxides of M1and M2, mixed metal hydroxy carbonates of M1and M2, and mixtures thereof.

[0048] It is preferred that the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3 have a molar ratio of M1to M2in the range of from 1 :5 to 5:1.0, more preferably in the range of from 1 :2.5 to 2.5:1 , more preferably in the range of from 1 :2 to 2:1 , more preferably in the range of from 1 :2.1 to 1 :1 .9. It is preferred that the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3 comprise from 22 to 34 weight- %, more preferably from 25 to 31 weight-%, more preferably from 27 to 29 weight-%, of M1, calculated as M1O, based on the sum of the weights of M1, calculated as M1O, and M2, calculated as M22C>3, comprised in the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3.

[0049] It is preferred that the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3 comprise from 66 to 78 weight- %, more preferably from 69 to 75 weight-%, more preferably from 71 to 73 weight-%, of M2, calculated as M22C>3, based on the sum of the weights of M1, calculated as M1O, and M2, calculated as M22C>3, comprised in the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3.

[0050] It is preferred that molding the mixture according to (ii) comprises tableting or extruding.

[0051] It is preferred that calcining according to (iii) is conducted at a temperature in the range of from 300 to 1200 °C, more preferably in the range of from 700 to 1100 °C, more preferably in the range of from 900 to 1000 °C.

[0052] It is preferred that calcining according to (iii) is conducted for a period of time in the range of from 0.1 to 48 h, more preferably in the range of from 0.5 to 24 h, more preferably in the range of from 1 to 5 h.

[0053] It is preferred that the gas atmosphere according to (iii) comprises, preferably consists of, one or more of oxygen and nitrogen, more preferably air.

[0054] It is preferred that the molding obtained from (iii) exhibits an X-ray diffraction pattern comprising at least the following reflections: wherein 100 % relates to the intensity of the maximum peak in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern, wherein the X-ray diffraction pattern is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .2, more preferably comprising at least the following reflections: wherein 100 % relates to the intensity of the maximum peak in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern, wherein the X-ray diffraction pattern is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .2, more preferably comprising at least the following reflections: wherein 100 % relates to the intensity of the maximum peak in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern, wherein the X-ray diffraction pattern is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .2, wherein M1is more preferably Mg and wherein M2is more preferably Al.

[0055] It is preferred that the molding obtained from (iii) has a water adsorption in the range of from 25 to 50 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 37 to 47 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 40 to 44 weight-%, wherein the water adsorption is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.1.

[0056] It is preferred that the molding obtained from (iii) has a BET specific surface area in the range of from 40.0 to 60.0 m2 / g, more preferably in the range of from 47.0 to 53.0 m2 / g, more preferably in the range of from 49.0 to 51 .0 m2 / g, wherein the BET specific surface area is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .3.

[0057] It is preferred that the molding obtained from (iii) has a total pore volume in the range of from 0.20 to 0.55 ml / g, more preferably in the range of from 0.30 to 0.42 ml / g, more preferably in the range of from 0.33 to 0.39 ml / g, wherein the total pore volume is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .4.

[0058] It is preferred that treating according to (iv) comprises immersing the molding in the acid.

[0059] It is preferred that treating according to (iv) is conducted for a period of time in the range of from 20 to 100 minutes, more preferably in the range of from 45 to 75 minutes, more preferably in the range of from 55 to 65 minutes.

[0060] It is preferred that treating according to (iv) is conducted at a temperature in the range of from 0 to 50 °C, more preferably in the range of from 10 to 40 °C, more preferably in the range of from 15 to 35 °C.

[0061] It is preferred that the acid according to (iv) is an aqueous acid.

[0062] In the case wherein the acid according to (iv) is an aqueous acid, it is preferred that the aqueous acid has a weight ratio of acid to water in the range of from 1 :1 to 1 :10, more preferably in the range of from 1 :3 to 1 :5, more preferably in the range of from 1 :3.9 to 1 :4.1. Further in the case wherein the acid according to (iv) is an aqueous acid, it is preferred that the aqueous acid has a concentration of acid in water in the range of from 2.5 to 4.5 mol / l, more preferably in the range of from 3.2 to 3.7 mol / l, more preferably in the range of from 3.3 to 3.6 mol / l.

[0063] It is preferred that the acid according to (iv) comprises, preferably consists of, one or more of an inorganic acid and an organic acid, more preferably one or more of HNO3, HCI, H2SO4, H3PO4, formic acid, oxalic acid, acetic acid, more preferably HNO3.

[0064] It is preferred that the process further comprises after (iv) and prior to (v), (w) washing the molding obtained from (iv) with de-ionized water.

[0065] It is preferred that the process further comprises after (iv) and prior to (v), preferably after (w) and prior to (v),

[0066] (d) drying the molding obtained from (iv) or (w) in a gas atmosphere.

[0067] In the case wherein the process further comprises drying according to (d), it is preferred that drying is conducted at a temperature in the range of from 80 to 160 °C, more preferably in the range of from 100 to 140 °C, more preferably in the range of from 110 to 130 °C.

[0068] Further in the case wherein the process further comprises drying according to (d), it is preferred that drying according to (d) is conducted for a period of time in the range of from 0.5 to 16 h, more preferably in the range of from 2 to12 h, more preferably in the range of from 3 to 8 h.

[0069] Further in the case wherein the process further comprises drying according to (d), it is preferred that the gas atmosphere according to (d) comprises, preferably consists of, one or more of oxygen and nitrogen, more preferably air.

[0070] It is preferred that calcining according to (v) is conducted at a temperature in the range of from 400 to 1000 °C, more preferably in the range of from 600 to 950 °C, more preferably in the range of from 825 to 875 °C.

[0071] It is preferred that calcining according to (v) is conducted for a period of time in the range of from 0.1 to 1.5 h, preferably in the range of from 0.3 to 0.7 h, more preferably in the range of from 0.4 to 0.6 h.

[0072] It is preferred that the gas atmosphere according to (v) comprises, preferably consists of, one or more of oxygen and nitrogen, more preferably air.

[0073] It is preferred that the process further comprises after (v)

[0074] (vi) supporting one or more metals M3on the molding obtained from (v), wherein supporting is more preferably carried out by impregnation, more preferably by wet impregnation, more preferably by incipient wet impregnation, wherein M3is selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ru, Os, Co, Rh, Ir, Pd, Pt, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably from the group consisting of Fe, Ru, and mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0075] Yet further, the present invention relates to a molding, preferably according to any one of the particular and preferred embodiments disclosed herein, wherein the molding is obtainable or obtained by the process according to any one of the particular and preferred embodiments disclosed herein.

[0076] Yet further, the present invention relates to use of the molding according to any one of the particular and preferred embodiments disclosed herein, as a catalyst or catalyst support.

[0077] The present invention is further illustrated by the following set of embodiments and combinations of embodiments resulting from the dependencies and back-references as indicated. In particular, it is noted that in each instance where a range of embodiments is mentioned, for example in the context of a term such as "The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 4", every embodiment in this range is meant to be explicitly disclosed for the skilled person, i.e. the wording of this term is to be understood by the skilled person as being synonymous to "The molding of any one of embodiments 1 , 2, 3, and 4". Further, it is explicitly noted that the following set of embodiments is not the set of claims determining the extent of protection, but represents a suitably structured part of the description directed to general and preferred aspects of the present invention.

[0078] 1 . A molding comprising a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula M1M22O4, wherein M1comprises one or more divalent elements M1, wherein M2comprises one or more triva- lent elements M2, wherein the mixed metal oxide comprises a crystalline phase having a spinel structure, wherein the crystalline phase having a spinel structure is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.2, wherein the molding has a total pore volume in the range of from 0.10 to 0.90 ml / g, wherein the total pore volume is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.4.

[0079] 2. The molding of embodiment 1 , wherein M1is selected from groups 2, 10, 11 and 12 of the periodic table of elements, wherein M1is preferably selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ni, Cu, Zn, Mn, Co, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ni, Cu, Zn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably from the group consisting of Mg, Zn, Cu, and mixtures thereof, more preferably from the group consisting of Mg, Zn, and mixtures thereof, wherein M1more preferably is Mg. 3. The molding of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein M2is selected from groups 5, 6, 7, 8 and 13 of the periodic table of elements, wherein M2is preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, Fe, V, Mn, Co, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, Fe, V, Mn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, V, Mn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, and mixtures of two or more thereof, wherein M2more preferably is Al.

[0080] 4. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 3, comprising 10 weight- % or less, preferably 5 weight-% or less, more preferably 1.0 weight-% or less, more preferably 0.1 weight- % or less, more preferably 0.01 weight-% or less of M1O, preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .2, based on the total weight of the one or more divalent elements M1, calculated as M1O, contained in the molding, wherein the total weight of the one or more divalent elements M1, calculated as M1O, in the molding is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .6.

[0081] 5. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 4, comprising 10 weight-% or less, preferably 5 weight-% or less, more preferably 1 weight-% or less, more preferably 0.1 weight-% or less, more preferably 0.01 weight-% or less, of M22O3, preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .2, based on the total weight of the one or more trivalent elements M2, calculated as M22O3, contained in the molding, wherein the total weight of the one or more divalent elements M2, calculated as M22O3, contained in the molding is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.6.

[0082] 6. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the mixed metal oxide has a crystallinity in the range of 50 to 100 %, preferably of 60 to 100 %, more preferably of 70 to 95 %, more preferably of 80 to 90 %, wherein the crystallinity is determined according to Reference Example 1 .2.

[0083] 7. The molding of embodiment 6, wherein from 50 to 100 %, preferably from 70 to 100 %, more preferably from 95 to 100 %, of the crystalline phase has the spinel structure as determined by XRD, preferably as determined according to Reference Example 1.2.

[0084] 8. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the molding exhibits an X-ray diffraction pattern comprising at least the following reflections: wherein 100 % relates to the intensity of the maximum peak in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern, wherein the X-ray diffraction pattern is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .2, preferably comprising at least the following reflections: wherein 100 % relates to the intensity of the maximum peak in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern, wherein the X-ray diffraction pattern is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.2, more preferably comprising at least the following reflections: wherein 100 % relates to the intensity of the maximum peak in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern, wherein the X-ray diffraction pattern is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .2, wherein M1is more preferably Mg and wherein M2is more preferably Al.

[0085] 9. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 8, having a median pore diameter in the range of from 0.001 to 0.1 pm, preferably in the range of from 0.005 to 0.05 pm, more preferably in the range of from 0.02 to 0.04 pm, more preferably in the range of from 0.027 to 0.035 pm, more preferably in the range of from 0.028 to 0.034 pm, wherein the pore size distribution is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.5.

[0086] 10. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 9, having a water adsorption in the range of from 10 to 80 weight-%, preferably in the range of from 30 to 60 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 40 to 50 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 43 to 47 weight-%, wherein the water adsorption is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .1 .

[0087] 11 . The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 10, having a BET specific surface area in the range of from 20.0 to 150.0 m2 / g, preferably in the range of from 30.0 to 90.0 m2 / g, more preferably in the range of from 40.0 to 65.0 m2 / g, more preferably in the range of from 47.0 to 49.0 m2 / g, wherein the BET specific surface area is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.3. 12. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 11 , having a total pore volume in the range of from 0.18 to 0.75 ml / g, preferably in the range of from 0.25 to 0.60 ml / g, more preferably in the range of from 0.33 to 0.53 ml / g, more preferably in the range of from 0.37 to 0.49 ml / g, more preferably in the range of from 0.40 to 0.46 ml / g, wherein the total pore volume is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.4.

[0088] 13. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 12, further comprising one or more metals M3, wherein M3is selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ru, Os, Co, Rh, Ir, Ni, Pd, Pt, Cu, Ag, Mo, Sn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, preferably from the group consisting of Fe, Ru, and mixtures of two or more thereof, wherein the one or more metals M3are more preferably supported on the mixed metal oxide.

[0089] 14. The molding of embodiment 13, comprising 20 weight-% or less, preferably 10 weight-% or less, more preferably 5 weight-% or less, of the one or more metals M3, calculated as elements, based on the sum of the weights of the one or more divalent elements M1, calculated as M1O, and the one or more trivalent elements M2, calculated as M22O3, wherein the sum of the weights of the one or more divalent elements M1, calculated as M1O, and the one or more trivalent elements M2, calculated as M22O3, contained in the molding is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.6.

[0090] 15. The molding of embodiment 13 or 14, wherein the one or more metals M3are homogeneously dispersed throughout the molding.

[0091] 16. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein from 85 to 100 weight-%, preferably from 90 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 95 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 98 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 99 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 99.9 to 100 weight-%, of the molding consist of M1, M2, O, H, and the optional one or more metals M3.

[0092] 17. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 16, wherein from 85 to 100 weight-%, preferably from 90 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 95 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 98 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 99 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 99.9 to 100 weight-%, of the molding consist of the mixed metal oxide and the optional one or more metals M3.

[0093] 18. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 17, being an extrudate, a tablet, or a granule.

[0094] 19. The molding of embodiment 18, wherein the extrudate or the tablet has a cross-section, wherein the cross-section is circular, hexagonal, rectangular, quadratic, triangular, oval, a star-shaped polygon, or cloverleaf-shaped, preferably circular, hexagonal, rectangular, quadratic, triangular, oval, a star-shaped polygon having 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 tips, a trilobe, a quadrilobe or a hexalobe, more preferably circular, hexagonal, rectangular, quadratic, triangular, oval, a star-shaped polygon having 3 or 4 tips, a trilobe, a quadrilobe or a hexalobe.

[0095] 20. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 19, wherein the molding is a tablet having a cross-section, wherein the cross-section is a quadrilobe.

[0096] 21 . The molding of embodiment 20, wherein the tablet has a thickness, wherein the thickness is in the range of from 2.0 to 13.0 mm, preferably in the range of from 5.0 to 10.0 mm, more preferably in the range of from 6.5 to 9.0 mm.

[0097] 22. The molding of embodiment 20 or 21 , wherein the tablet has a diameter D in the range of from 5 to 20 mm, preferably in the range of from 7 to 17 mm, more preferably in the range of from 9 to 15 mm.

[0098] 23. The molding of any one of embodiments 1 to 19, wherein the molding is a tablet having a cross-section, wherein the cross-section is a hexalobe.

[0099] 24. The molding of embodiment 23, wherein the tablet has a thickness, wherein the thickness is in the range of from 2.0 to 15.0 mm, preferably in the range of from 5.0 to 12.0 mm, more preferably in the range of from 8.0 to 9.0 mm.

[0100] 25. The molding of embodiment 23 or 24, wherein the tablet has a diameter D in the range of from 5 to 25 mm, preferably in the range of from 12 to 19 mm, more preferably in the range of from 14 to 17 mm.

[0101] 26. A process for preparing a molding, preferably for preparing a molding according to any one of embodiments 1 to 25, the process comprising

[0102] (i) providing one or more sources for M1O and M22O3, wherein M1stands for one or more divalent elements and M2stands for one or more trivalent elements;

[0103] (ii) molding the one or more sources obtained from (i);

[0104] (iii) calcining the molding obtained from (ii) in a gas atmosphere;

[0105] (iv) treating the molding obtained from (iii) with an acid;

[0106] (v) calcining the molding obtained from (iv) in a gas atmosphere.

[0107] 27. The process of embodiment 26, wherein M1is selected from groups 2, 10, 11 and 12 of the periodic table of elements, wherein M1is preferably selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ni, Cu, Zn, Mn, Co, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ni, Cu, Zn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably from the group consisting of Mg, Zn, Cu, and mixtures thereof, more preferably from the group consisting of Mg, Zn, and mixtures thereof, wherein M1more preferably is Mg. The process of embodiment 26 or 27, wherein M2is selected from groups 5, 6, 7, 8 and

[0108] 13 of the periodic table of elements, wherein M2is preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, Fe, V, Mn, Co, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, Fe, V, Mn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, V, Mn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, more preferably selected from the group consisting of Al, Cr, and mixtures of two or more thereof, wherein M2more preferably is Al. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 28, wherein the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3 comprise, preferably consist of, one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of oxides of M1, hydroxides of M1, carbonates of M1, hydrogencarbonates of M1, hydroxy carbonates of M1, oxides of M2, hydroxides of M2, carbonates of M2, hydrogencarbonates of M2, hydroxy carbonates of M2, mixed metal oxides of M1and M2, mixed metal hydroxy carbonates of M1and M2, and mixtures of two or more thereof. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 29, wherein the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3 comprise, preferably consist of, one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of mixed metal oxides of M1and M2, mixed metal hydroxy carbonates of M1and M2, and mixtures thereof. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3 have a molar ratio of M1to M2in the range of from 1 :5 to 5:1.0, preferably in the range of from 1 :2.5 to 2.5:1 , more preferably in the range of from 1 :2 to 2:1 , more preferably in the range of from 1 :2.1 to 1 :1 .9. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 31 , wherein the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3 comprise from 22 to 34 weight-%, preferably from 25 to 31 weight-%, more preferably from 27 to 29 weight-%, of M1, calculated as M1O, based on the sum of the weights of M1, calculated as M1O, and M2, calculated as M22O3, comprised in the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 32, wherein the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3 comprise from 66 to 78 weight-%, preferably from 69 to 75 weight-%, more preferably from 71 to 73 weight-%, of M2, calculated as M22O3, based on the sum of the weights of M1, calculated as M1O, and M2, calculated as M22O3, comprised in the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 33, wherein molding the mixture according to (ii) comprises tableting or extruding. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 34, wherein calcining according to (iii) is conducted at a temperature in the range of from 300 to 1200 °C, preferably in the range of from 700 to 1100 °C, more preferably in the range of from 900 to 1000 °C. 36. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 35, wherein calcining according to (iii) is conducted for a period of time in the range of from 0.1 to 48 h, preferably in the range of from 0.5 to 24 h, more preferably in the range of from 1 to 5 h.

[0109] 37. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 36, wherein the gas atmosphere according to (iii) comprises, preferably consists of, one or more of oxygen and nitrogen, preferably air.

[0110] 38. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 37, wherein the molding obtained from (iii) exhibits an X-ray diffraction pattern comprising at least the following reflections: wherein 100 % relates to the intensity of the maximum peak in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern, wherein the X-ray diffraction pattern is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .2, preferably comprising at least the following reflections: wherein 100 % relates to the intensity of the maximum peak in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern, wherein the X-ray diffraction pattern is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.2, more preferably comprising at least the following reflections: wherein 100 % relates to the intensity of the maximum peak in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern, wherein the X-ray diffraction pattern is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .2, wherein M1is more preferably Mg and wherein M2is more preferably Al. 39. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 38, wherein the molding obtained from (iii) has a water adsorption in the range of from 25 to 50 weight-%, preferably in the range of from 37 to 47 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 40 to 44 weight-%, wherein the water adsorption is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1.1.

[0111] 40. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 39, wherein the molding obtained from (iii) has a BET specific surface area in the range of from 40.0 to 60.0 m2 / g, preferably in the range of from 47.0 to 53.0 m2 / g, more preferably in the range of from 49.0 to 51.0 m2 / g, wherein the BET specific surface area is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .3.

[0112] 41 . The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 40, wherein the molding obtained from (iii) has a total pore volume in the range of from 0.20 to 0.55 ml / g, preferably in the range of from 0.30 to 0.42 ml / g, more preferably in the range of from 0.33 to 0.39 ml / g, wherein the total pore volume is preferably determined according to Reference Example 1 .4.

[0113] 42. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 41 , wherein treating according to (iv) comprises immersing the molding in the acid.

[0114] 43. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 42, wherein treating according to (iv) is conducted for a period of time in the range of from 20 to 100 minutes, preferably in the range of from 45 to 75 minutes, more preferably in the range of from 55 to 65 minutes.

[0115] 44. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 43, wherein treating according to (iv) is conducted at a temperature in the range of from 0 to 50 °C, preferably in the range of from 10 to 40 °C, more preferably in the range of from 15 to 35 °C.

[0116] 45. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 44, wherein the acid according to (iv) is an aqueous acid.

[0117] 46. The process of embodiment 45, wherein the aqueous acid has a weight ratio of acid to water in the range of from 1 :1 to 1 : 10, preferably in the range of from 1 :3 to 1 :5, more preferably in the range of from 1 :3.9 to 1 :4.1.

[0118] 47. The process of embodiment 45 or 46, wherein the aqueous acid has a concentration of acid in water in the range of from 2.5 to 4.5 mol / l, preferably in the range of from 3.2 to 3.7 mol / l, more preferably in the range of from 3.3 to 3.6 mol / l.

[0119] 48. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 47, wherein the acid according to (iv) comprises, preferably consists of, one or more of an inorganic acid and an organic acid, preferably one or more of HNO3, HCI, H2SO4, H3PO4, formic acid, oxalic acid, acetic acid, more preferably HNO3. 49. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 48, further comprising after (iv) and prior to

[0120] (v),

[0121] (w) washing the molding obtained from (iv) with de-ionized water.

[0122] 50. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 49, further comprising after (iv) and prior to

[0123] (v), preferably after (w) and prior to (v),

[0124] (d) drying the molding obtained from (iv) or (w) in a gas atmosphere.

[0125] 51 . The process of embodiment 50, wherein drying according to (d) is conducted at a temperature in the range of from 80 to 160 °C, preferably in the range of from 100 to 140 °C, more preferably in the range of from 110 to 130 °C.

[0126] 52. The process of embodiment 50 or 51 , wherein drying according to (d) is conducted for a period of time in the range of from 0.5 to 16 h, preferably in the range of from 2 to12 h, more preferably in the range of from 3 to 8 h.

[0127] 53. The process of any one of embodiments 50 to 52, wherein the gas atmosphere according to (d) comprises, preferably consists of, one or more of oxygen and nitrogen, preferably air.

[0128] 54. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 53, wherein calcining according to (v) is conducted at a temperature in the range of from 400 to 1000 °C, preferably in the range of from 600 to 950 °C, more preferably in the range of from 825 to 875 °C.

[0129] 55. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 54, wherein calcining according to (v) is conducted for a period of time in the range of from 0.1 to 1.5 h, preferably in the range of from 0.3 to 0.7 h, more preferably in the range of from 0.4 to 0.6 h.

[0130] 56. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 55, wherein the gas atmosphere according to (v) comprises, preferably consists of, one or more of oxygen and nitrogen, preferably air.

[0131] 57. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 56, further comprising after (v)

[0132] (vi) supporting one or more metals M3on the molding obtained from (v), wherein supporting is preferably carried out by impregnation, more preferably by wet impregnation, more preferably by incipient wet impregnation, wherein M3is selected from the group consisting of Fe, Ru, Os, Co, Rh, Ir, Pd, Pt, Cu, Ag, Mo, Sn, and mixtures of two or more thereof, preferably from the group consisting of Fe, Ru, and mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0133] 58. A molding, preferably according to any one of embodiments 1 to 57, wherein the molding is obtainable or obtained by the process according to any one of embodiments 26 to 57. 59. Use of the molding according to any one of embodiments 1 to 25 and 58, as a catalyst or catalyst support.

[0134] The present invention is further illustrated by the following examples, comparative examples and reference examples.

[0135] EXAMPLES

[0136] Reference Example 1 : Determination methods

[0137] Reference Example 1.1: Determination of water adsorption

[0138] A dried molding was placed in water such that it was fully immersed. The molding stayed 60 minutes in water. After that, the outer surface of the molding was dried and the weight of the molding was determined. The water uptake in weight-% was calculated according to formula I: water uptake = (weight of wet molding - weight of dried molding) I weight of dried molding (I).

[0139] Reference Example 1.2: X-ray powder diffraction and determination of the crystallinity

[0140] Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) data was collected using a diffractometer (D8 Advance Series II, Bruker AXS GmbH) equipped with a LYNXEYE detector operated with a Copper anode X-ray tube running at 40 kV and 40 mA. The geometry was Bragg-Brentano, and air scattering was reduced using an air scatter shield.

[0141] Computing crystallinity: The crystallinity of the samples was determined using the software DIF- FRAC.EVA provided by Bruker AXS GmbH, Karlsruhe, according to the method which is described on page 121 of the user manual. The default parameters for the calculation were used.

[0142] Computing phase composition: The phase composition was computed against the raw data using the modelling software DIFFRAC.TOPAS provided by Bruker AXS GmbH (User Manual for DI FFRAC. TOPAS Version 6, 2017, Bruker AXS GmbH, Karlsruhe). The crystal structures of the identified phases, instrumental parameters as well the crystallite size of the individual phases were used to simulate the diffraction pattern. This was fit against the data in addition to a function modelling the background intensities.

[0143] Data collection: The samples were homogenized in a mortar and then pressed into a standard flat sample holder provided by Bruker AXS GmbH for Bragg-Brentano geometry data collection. The flat surface was achieved using a glass plate to compress and flatten the sample powder. The data was collected from the angular range 2 to 70 °2Theta with a step size of 0.02 °2Theta, while the variable divergence slit was set to an angle of 0.1 °. The crystalline content describes the intensity of the crystalline signal to the total scattered intensity. Reference Example 1.3: Determination of BET specific surface area

[0144] The BET specific surface area was determined via nitrogen physisorption at 77 K according to the method disclosed in DIN 66131.

[0145] Reference Example 1.4: Determination of total pore volume

[0146] The total pore volume was determined via intrusion mercury porosimetry according to DIN 66133. To this effect, a MicroActive AutoPore V 9600 was applied.

[0147] Reference Example 1.5: Determination of pore size distribution

[0148] The pore size distribution was determined via intrusion mercury porosimetry according to DIN 66133. To this effect, a MicroActive AutoPore V 9600 was applied.

[0149] Reference Example 1.6: Elemental analysis

[0150] Elemental analysis was carried out in accordance with ICP-OES, DIN ISO 17025.

[0151] Example 1 : Preparing a molding according to the present invention

[0152] Pural Mg 30 (comprising Mg, calculated as MgO, and Al, calculated as AI2O3, in a weight ratio of 30:70) quadrilobes were calcined at 950 °C for 3 h in air. The calcined quadrilobes were treated with nitric acid as follows. The calcined quadrilobes were placed in a glass beaker, which was then filled with an aqueous HNOs-containing solution (20 wt.-% concentration, corresponding to 3.3 mol / l). All tablets were fully covered by said acidic solution. After 60 minutes, the acidic solution was removed and the obtained quadrilobes washed with demineralized water. The quadrilobes were dried at 120 °C for 4 h (heating rate of 5 °C / min). After the drying step, a calcination step for removing residual nitrates was conducted at 850 °C for 0.5 h (heating rate of 5 °C / min). The characteristics of the molding before and after the acid treatment are noted in Table 1 below.

[0153] Table 1

[0154] Characteristics of the Pural Mg 30 quadrilobes prior to and after treatment with aqueous HNO3- containing solution. Brief description of figures

[0155] Figure 1 : shows the powder XRD of a sample of the molding according to Example 1 before the acid treatment. It is shown that besides an MgAhC spinel phase also a MgO periclase phase is present.

[0156] Figure 2: shows the powder XRD of a sample of the molding according to Example 1 after the acid treatment. It is shown that an MgAhC spinel phase is present, but no MgO periclase phase.

[0157] Figure 3: shows in figure 3A the cross-section of an impregnated sample molding which was not treated according to the present invention, and in figure 3B the cross-section of a sample molding which was treated according to the present invention.

[0158] Figure 4: shows the pore size distribution of a molding according to Example 1 of the present invention before and after HNO3 treatment. The pore size diameter is given in pm on the abscissa in a logarithmic scale, and the relative differential intrusion volume is given on the ordinate.

[0159] Cited literature

[0160] - CA 1189052

[0161] - US 4558031

[0162] - EP 0210681 A1

[0163] - WO 94 / 16798 A1

[0164] - GB 1377191 A

Claims

Claims1 . A molding comprising a mixed metal oxide having the empirical formula M1M22O4, wherein M1comprises one or more divalent elements M1, wherein M2comprises one or more triva- lent elements M2, wherein the mixed metal oxide comprises a crystalline phase having a spinel structure, wherein the molding has a total pore volume in the range of from 0.10 to 0.90 ml / g.

2. The molding of claim 1 , wherein M1is selected from groups 2, 10, 11 and 12 of the periodic table of elements.

3. The molding of claim 1 or 2, wherein M2is selected from groups 5, 6, 7, 8 and 13 of the periodic table of elements.

4. The molding of any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising 1 .0 weight-% or less of M1O, based on the total weight of the one or more divalent elements M1, calculated as M1O, contained in the molding.

5. The molding of any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising 1 weight-% or less of M22O3, based on the total weight of the one or more trivalent elements M2, calculated as M22O3, contained in the molding.

6. The molding of any one of claims 1 to 5, having a median pore diameter in the range of from 0.001 to 0.1 pm.

7. The molding of any one of claims 1 to 6, having a water adsorption in the range of from 10 to 80 weight-%.

8. The molding of any one of claims 1 to 7, further optionally comprising one or more metals M3, and having a BET specific surface area in the range of from 20.0 to 150.0 m2 / g.

9. The molding of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein from 85 to 100 weight-% of the molding consist of M1, M2, O, H, and the optional one or more metals M3.

10. The molding of any one of claims 1 to 9, being an extrudate, a tablet, or a granule.11 . The molding of claim 10, wherein the extrudate or the tablet has a cross-section, wherein the cross-section is circular, hexagonal, rectangular, quadratic, triangular, oval, a starshaped polygon, or cloverleaf-shaped.

12. A process for preparing a molding, the process comprising(i) providing one or more sources for M1O and M22O3, wherein M1stands for one or more divalent elements and M2stands for one or more trivalent elements;(ii) molding the one or more sources obtained from (i);(iii) calcining the molding obtained from (ii) in a gas atmosphere;(iv) treating the molding obtained from (iii) with an acid;(v) calcining the molding obtained from (iv) in a gas atmosphere.

13. The process of claim 12, wherein the one or more sources for M1O and M22O3 comprise one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of oxides of M1, hydroxides of M1, carbonates of M1, hydrogencarbonates of M1, hydroxy carbonates of M1, oxides of M2, hydroxides of M2, carbonates of M2, hydrogencarbonates of M2, hydroxy carbonates of M2, mixed metal oxides of M1and M2, mixed metal hydroxy carbonates of M1and M2, and mixtures of two or more thereof.

14. A molding, wherein the molding is obtainable or obtained by the process according to claim 12 or 13.

15. Use of the molding according to any one of claims 1 to 11 and 14, as a catalyst or catalyst support.

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