Process for preparing a layered catalyst composition for a selective hydrogenation process

A process for preparing a layered catalyst composition for selectively hydrogenating one or more C5-C11 diolefins in a hydrocarbon mixture to one or more respective C5-C11 monoolefins under selective hydrogenation conditions comprising a first liquid phase, wherein the layered catalyst comprises:

• (a) an inner core comprising a first inorganic oxide, and
• (b) an outer layer bonded to said inner core, said outer layer comprising a second inorganic oxide that is non-refractory and has dispersed thereon at least one IUPAC Group 1-2 metal and at least one IUPAC Group 8-10 metal, the process comprising:
• i) coating the inner core with a slurry comprising the second inorganic oxide, depositing on the coated core at least one IUPAC Group 1-2 metal and at least one IUPAC Group 8-10 metal in the presence of a second liquid phase, drying the coated core and calcining at a temperature of about 400° C. to about 900° C. for a time sufficient to bond the outer layer to the inner core and provide a layered support;
• and
• ii) reducing the product of step i) under reduction conditions to provide the layered catalyst composition.