The batch reactor set-up was composed of a PTFE gasketed autoclave reactor with an internal thermocouple and a PTFE liner (300 mL Series 4760 Pressure Vessel, Parr Instrument Company), a self- manufactured internal PTFE cap, a magnetic stirrer with heating plate (C-MAG HS 7 digital, IKA), an external thermocouple and a custom-made external aluminium heating jacket. The catalyst powder (0.4 g or 0.8 g) was weighed directly inside the PTFE liner. A magnetic stir bar was put inside the liner. 100 mL of 2-butanol solution was poured into the PTFE liner, which was put inside the lower part of the stainlesssteel reactor. The PTFE cap was mounted on the upper part of the reactor, which was then closed and sealed.