Alloying effect enhanced bimetallic Ni-Fe/TiO2 catalysts for selective hydrogenation of 1,3-butadiene in the presence of an excess of propylene

•Ni-Fe catalyst for light alkadienes semi-hydrogenation is for the first time reported.•The evolution of metal phase from metallic Ni to Ni3Fe alloy is evidenced.•Alloying weakens butenes adsorption on Ni by the geometric and electronic effect.•NiFe0.33/TiO2 has excellent catalytic performance, being a promising Pd alternative.