Chemical synthesis and evaluation of Co3O4/Ce0.9Zr0.05Y0.05O2-δ mixed oxides for the catalytic-assisted combustion of soot

Soot is one of the primary atmospheric pollutants coming from incomplete combustion in diesel engines. Therefore, its mitigation is mandatory to preserve air quality and to diminish the already known harmful effects on human health. In the present work, it is studied the chemical synthesis of nanocrystalline powders of CeO2-based oxides and their catalytic performance on the combustion of soot at low temperatures. Specifically, cerium oxide co-doped with zirconium and yttrium was successfully synthesized via hydrothermal synthesis and subsequently loaded with an active phase of Co3O4. The obtained catalysts were physicochemical, structural, and microstructurally characterized. Different samples were tested by thermogravimetric analysis looking forward to elucidating both the effect of the composition and other features of the catalyst on the soot combustion's kinetic and temperature. Results showed the obtaining of a high activity catalyst by reaching values of 255.4 and 327.2 degrees C for the T10 and T50, respectively. It is discussed the role of the Co3O4 acting as a promoter phase in the catalyst. (C) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study focused on the chemical synthesis of nanocrystalline powders of CeO2-based oxides and their catalytic performance on the combustion of soot at low temperatures. By successfully synthesizing cerium oxide co-doped with zirconium and yttrium loaded with an active phase of Co3O4, the catalyst showed high activity levels, improving soot combustion process. The results discussed the role of Co3O4 as a promoter phase in the catalyst, highlighting its potential in enhancing catalytic activity.