Unraveling specific role of carbon matrix over Pd/quasi-Ce-MOF facilitating toluene enhanced degradation

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) derivatives represented by quasi-MOFs have excellent physical and chemical properties and can be applied for the catalytic combustion of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In this work, Pd/quasi-Ce-BTC synthesized by simple one-step N2 pyrolysis was applied to the oxidation of toluene, showing excellent toluene catalytic activity (T90 = 175 degrees C, 30000 mL/(g$h)). Microscopic analyses indicate the formation and interaction of a carbon matrix composite quasi-MOF structure interface. The results show that the amorphous carbon matrix formed during the partial py-rolysis of Ce-BTC significantly improves the adsorption and activation capacity of toluene in the reaction, and constructs a reductive system to maintain high concentrations of Ce3+ and Pd0, which can facilitate the activation and utilization of oxygen in reaction. Quasi in-situ XPS proves that carbon matrix is indirectly involved in the activation and storage of oxygen, and Pd0 is the crucial active site for the activation of oxygen. Stability and water resistance tests display good stability of Pd/quasi-Ce-BTC. This work provides a potential method for designing quasi-MOF catalysts towards VOCs effective abatement.(c) 2021 Chinese Society of Rare Earths. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study synthesized Pd/quasi-Ce-BTC catalyst by simple one-step pyrolysis and applied it in the oxidation of toluene, showing excellent catalytic activity. Microscopic analysis revealed the formation of a carbon matrix composite quasi-MOF structure interface. The results demonstrated that the amorphous carbon matrix significantly enhanced the adsorption and activation capacity of toluene in the reaction, creating a reductive system that facilitated the activation and utilization of oxygen. In-situ XPS analysis confirmed the involvement of the carbon matrix in oxygen activation and storage, with Pd0 identified as the crucial active site. Stability and water resistance tests indicated the good stability of Pd/quasi-Ce-BTC. This study provides a potential method for the development of quasi-MOF catalysts for effective VOCs abatement.