The bimetallic effect promotes the activity of Rh in catalyzed selective hydrogenation of phenol

Au@RhPd ultrathin nanowires are designed as a highly reactive and selective catalyst for the hydrogenation of phenol under ambient conditions. Au NWs modulate the electronic state of Rh atoms to enhance the adsorption of phenol and desorption of cyclohexanone. Pd works as a cocatalyst to activate H-2 to H* and spillover to Rh sites. This new catalyst shows a turnover frequency of up to 560 h(-1) for a wide spectrum of phenols with >80% selectivity toward cyclohexanones.

Automated summary

Au@RhPd ultrathin nanowires serve as a highly reactive and selective catalyst for the hydrogenation of phenol at ambient conditions. The interaction between Au NWs and Rh atoms enhances the adsorption and desorption processes, while Pd acts as a cocatalyst to activate H2 and transfer it to Rh sites. This catalyst exhibits a turnover frequency of up to 560 h(-1) with over 80% selectivity towards cyclohexanones.