Preparation of highly efficient Au/C catalysts for glucose oxidation via novel plasma reduction

An argon glow discharge plasma was used for the reduction of carbon-supported Au catalysts at ambient temperature. The plasma-reduced Au/C sample produced 7-8 nm Au particles that were highly dispersed on carbon. The surface oxygen species on carbon were increased by plasma treatment. Most interestingly, the metal particles were recessed into the carbon substrate. The stronger anchoring enhanced the stability of the active metal loaded on the support. The Au/C catalysts were tested for selective oxidation of glucose to gluconic acid compared with conventional hydrogen reduced catalysts. A significant improvement in glucose oxidation was achieved by the plasma-reduced sample. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.