Preparation of Bimetallic CuZn@mSiO2 Yolk-Shell Catalyst for the Selective Oxidation of Cumene to Acetophenone

Bimetallic catalysts have exhibited huge catalytic potential in the oxy-functionalization of alkanes. Here, we provide a valid strategy for encapsulating copper and zinc metal oxide nanoparticles by mesoporous SiO2. The prepared CuZn@mSiO(2) catalyst are yolk-shell nanospheres with a diameter of 600 nm and a large specific surface area around 1000 m(2) g(-1). Bimetallic synergy between Cu and Zn was further analyzed by XRD, XPS and H-2-TPR. The selective oxidation of cumene to acetophenone was used as a probe reaction to evaluate the activity of bimetallic yolk-shell catalysts, and the results showed excellent catalytic performance that promoted cumene to acetophenone transformation under mild conditions (80 degrees C, 5 h, H2O2 as oxidant). Also, the recycling tests verified the robust stability and reusability for the catalyst. Finally, a reasonable reaction mechanism was proposed to better understand the oxidation pathway of cumene.

Automated summary

Researchers have developed an effective strategy to encapsulate copper and zinc metal oxide nanoparticles within mesoporous SiO2. The resulting bimetallic yolk-shell catalysts show excellent catalytic performance in the oxidation of cumene to acetophenone.