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Volume 10
Issue 2
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Catalysts, Volume 10, Issue 2 (February 2020) – 124 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Copper-based mixed metal oxides derived from calcination of hydrotalcite-like materials were tested as catalysts of selective catalytic oxidation of ammonia to dinitrogen. Obtained results allow correlating redox properties, phase composition, and the CuO particle size with the catalytic efficiency of materials.View this paper.
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16 pages, 8194 KiB  
Article
Selective Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol by Ag/Pd/m-BiVO4 Microspheres under Visible Light Irradiation
by Xiujuan Yu, Haiying Li, Xueli Hao, Zhiying Zhang, Yan Wang, Jingyi Li and Kai Wang
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 266; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020266 - 22 Feb 2020
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4585
Abstract
A series of Ag/Pd/m-BiVO4 (monoclinic) bimetallic photocatalytic materials with different loading amounts and different mass ratios of Ag and Pd were synthesized by a hydrothermal method and an NaBH4 reduction method. The Ag/Pd/m-BiVO4 photocatalyst with a total Ag and Pd [...] Read more.
A series of Ag/Pd/m-BiVO4 (monoclinic) bimetallic photocatalytic materials with different loading amounts and different mass ratios of Ag and Pd were synthesized by a hydrothermal method and an NaBH4 reduction method. The Ag/Pd/m-BiVO4 photocatalyst with a total Ag and Pd loading of 2 wt% and an Ag-to-Pd mass ratio of 2:1 can selectively oxidize benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde under visible light irradiation, the conversion rate was up to 89.9%, and the selectivity was greater than 99%. The conversion rate on Ag/Pd/m-BiVO4 was higher than those on Ag/m-BiVO4 and Pd/m-BiVO4. The photocatalysts were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflection spectroscopy (UV-vis DRS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, N2 adsorption-desorption isothermal curves (BET) and other means. The effects of different light wavelengths and light intensities were compared. Then, the effects of different alcohol derivatives on the reactions were explored. The cycle experiments proved that the Ag/Pd/m-BiVO4 photocatalyst had good light stability and thermal stability. In addition, the capturing experiment of active species shows that the selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol is mainly accomplished through the synergistic action of h+, e−, •OH and •O2−. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials in Photo(Electro)catalysis)
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15 pages, 3168 KiB  
Article
Selective Catalytic Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol by MoO2 Nanoparticles
by Filipe Gaspar and Carla D. Nunes
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 265; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020265 - 22 Feb 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5670
Abstract
Selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde was carried out with MoO2 nanoparticles (MoO2 NPs). MoO2 NPs were synthesized by two different approaches and characterized by several techniques. The synthesis was done by a hydrothermal procedure using ethylenediamine and either [...] Read more.
Selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde was carried out with MoO2 nanoparticles (MoO2 NPs). MoO2 NPs were synthesized by two different approaches and characterized by several techniques. The synthesis was done by a hydrothermal procedure using ethylenediamine and either Fe2O3 or hydroquinone. In the latter case, an additional calcination step under N2 was performed to eliminate passivating agents at the surface of the nanoparticles. The synthesized nanocatalysts showed similar catalytic properties, being efficient catalysts in the oxidation of benzyl alcohol. High substrate conversion and product selectivity were achieved under all tested conditions. Studies were conducted using two different oxidants: tert-butyl hydroperoxide and hydrogen peroxide, in our continuous effort to obtain more efficient catalysts for more sustainable catalytic processes. When H2O2 was used as the oxidant, 94% yield was achieved with 100% selectivity for benzaldehyde, which was a very promising result to undergo other studies with this system. Moreover, to elucidate some aspects of the reaction mechanism, a study was conducted, and it was possible to conclude that the reaction undergoes, to some extent, through a radical mechanism with both oxidants. Full article
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11 pages, 2374 KiB  
Article
Synthesis and Reactivity of Poly(propyleneimine) Dendrimers Functionalized with Cyclopentadienone N-Heterocyclic-Carbene Ruthenium(0) Complexes
by Cristiana Cesari, Riccardo Conti, Andrea Cingolani, Valerio Zanotti, Maria Cristina Cassani, Luca Rigamonti and Rita Mazzoni
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 264; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020264 - 22 Feb 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3830
Abstract
Ligand design in metal chemistry is a fundamental step when pursuing compounds with specific reactivity. In this paper, the functionalization of the OH group in the lateral chain of the N-heterocyclic-carbene (NHC) ligand bound to a bis-carbonyl cyclopentadienone NHC ruthenium(0) complex [...] Read more.
Ligand design in metal chemistry is a fundamental step when pursuing compounds with specific reactivity. In this paper, the functionalization of the OH group in the lateral chain of the N-heterocyclic-carbene (NHC) ligand bound to a bis-carbonyl cyclopentadienone NHC ruthenium(0) complex allowed the decoration of five generations of poly(propyleneimine) (PPIs) dendrimers with up to 64 organometallic moieties. The coupling was achieved by employing carbonyldiimidazole and the formation of carbamate linkages between dendritic peripheral NH2 and lateral OH groups on ruthenium complexes. The synthetic procedure, chemical purification, and spectroscopic characterization of the five generations of dendrimers (3g1–5) are here described. The ruthenium-modified dendrimers were activated as catalysts in the transfer hydrogenation of the model compound 4-fluoroacetophenone in the presence of cerium ammonium nitrate as their mononuclear congeners. The catalytic activity, being similar for the five generations, shows a decrease if compared to mononuclear complexes. This detrimental effect might be ascribed to the –CH2NH– functionalization, largely present in dendrimer skeleton and that can compete with the hydrogen transfer mechanism, but also partially to a dendritic effect caused by steric encumbrance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ligand Design in Metal Chemistry: Reactivity and Catalysis)
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14 pages, 3571 KiB  
Article
Electrochemical Oxidation of an Organic Dye Adsorbed on Tin Oxide and Antimony Doped Tin Oxide Graphene Composites
by Farbod Sharif and Edward P. L. Roberts
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020263 - 21 Feb 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4412
Abstract
Electrochemical regeneration suffers from low regeneration efficiency due to side reactions like oxygen evolution, as well as oxidation of the adsorbent. In this study, electrically conducting nanocomposites, including graphene/SnO2 (G/SnO2) and graphene/Sb-SnO2 (G/Sb-SnO2) were successfully synthesized and [...] Read more.
Electrochemical regeneration suffers from low regeneration efficiency due to side reactions like oxygen evolution, as well as oxidation of the adsorbent. In this study, electrically conducting nanocomposites, including graphene/SnO2 (G/SnO2) and graphene/Sb-SnO2 (G/Sb-SnO2) were successfully synthesized and characterized using nitrogen adsorption, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. Thereafter, the adsorption and electrochemical regeneration performance of the nanocomposites were tested using methylene blue as a model contaminant. Compared to bare graphene, the adsorption capacity of the new composites was ≥40% higher, with similar isotherm behavior. The adsorption capacity of G/SnO2 and G/Sb-SnO2 were effectively regenerated in both NaCl and Na2SO4 electrolytes, requiring as little charge as 21 C mg−1 of adsorbate for complete regeneration, compared to >35 C mg−1 for bare graphene. Consecutive loading and anodic electrochemical regeneration cycles of the nanocomposites were carried out in both NaCl and Na2SO4 electrolytes without loss of the nanocomposite, attaining high regeneration efficiencies (ca. 100%). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Heterogeneous Catalysts for Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs))
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11 pages, 2486 KiB  
Communication
The Effects of the Crystalline Phase of Zirconia on C–O Activation and C–C Coupling in Converting Syngas into Aromatics
by Sheng Wang, Yue Fang, Zhen Huang, Hualong Xu and Wei Shen
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 262; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020262 - 21 Feb 2020
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4503
Abstract
Zirconia has recently been used as an efficient catalyst in the conversion of syngas. The crystalline phases of ZrO2 in ZrO2/HZSM-5 bi-functional catalysts have important effects on C–O activation and C–C coupling in converting syngas into aromatics and been investigated [...] Read more.
Zirconia has recently been used as an efficient catalyst in the conversion of syngas. The crystalline phases of ZrO2 in ZrO2/HZSM-5 bi-functional catalysts have important effects on C–O activation and C–C coupling in converting syngas into aromatics and been investigated in this work. Monoclinic ZrO2 (m-ZrO2) and tetragonal ZrO2 (t-ZrO2) were synthesized by hydrothermal and chemical precipitation methods, respectively. The results of in situ diffuse reflection infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTs) revealed that there were more active hydroxyl groups existing on the surface of m-ZrO2, and CO temperature programmed desorption (CO-TPD) results indicated that the CO adsorption capacity of m-ZrO2 was higher than that of t-ZrO2, which can facilitate the C–O activation of m-ZrO2 for syngas conversion compared to that of t-ZrO2. And the CO conversion on the m-ZrO2 catalyst was about 50% more than that on the t-ZrO2 catalyst. 31P and 13C magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS NMR) analysis revealed a higher acid and base density of m-ZrO2 than that of t-ZrO2, which enhanced the C–C coupling. The selectivity to CH4 on the m-ZrO2 catalyst was about 1/5 of that on the t-ZrO2 catalyst in syngas conversion. The selectivity to C2+ hydrocarbons over m-ZrO2 or t-ZrO2 as well as the proximity of the ZrO2 sample and HZSM-5 greatly affected the further aromatization in converting syngas into aromatics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysts for Production and Conversion of Syngas)
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11 pages, 4769 KiB  
Article
Surface-Modified Titanium Dioxide Nanofibers with Gold Nanoparticles for Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
by Van Nghia Nguyen, Minh Vuong Nguyen, Thi Hong Trang Nguyen, Minh Thuy Doan, Loan Le Thi Ngoc, Ewald Janssens, Anupam Yadav, Pin-Cheng Lin, Manh Son Nguyen and Nhat Hieu Hoang
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 261; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020261 - 21 Feb 2020
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 5867
Abstract
High-stability, high-efficiency, and low-cost solar photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting has great potential for hydrogen-energy applications. Here, we report on gold/titanium dioxide (Au/TiO2) nanofiber structures grown directly on a conductive indium tin oxide substrate, and used as photoelectrodes in PEC cells for [...] Read more.
High-stability, high-efficiency, and low-cost solar photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting has great potential for hydrogen-energy applications. Here, we report on gold/titanium dioxide (Au/TiO2) nanofiber structures grown directly on a conductive indium tin oxide substrate, and used as photoelectrodes in PEC cells for hydrogen generation. The titanium dioxide nanofibers (TiO2 NFs) are synthesized using electrospinning, and are surface-modified by the deposition of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) using a simple photoreduction method. The structure and morphology of the materials were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of the Au NPs was investigated by ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The PEC properties of the as-prepared photoelectrodes were measured. The obtained photoconversion efficiency of 0.52% under simulated-sunlight illumination by a 150 W xenon lamp of the Au/TiO2 NFs structure with 15 min UV irradiation for Au NP deposition was the highest value from comparable structures. Working photoelectrode stability was tested, and the mechanism of the enhanced PEC performance is discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Photocatalysis)
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12 pages, 1169 KiB  
Communication
Immobilization of Old Yellow Enzymes via Covalent or Coordination Bonds
by Francesca Tentori, Teodora Bavaro, Elisabetta Brenna, Danilo Colombo, Daniela Monti, Riccardo Semproli and Daniela Ubiali
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 260; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020260 - 20 Feb 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4942
Abstract
Ene-reductases (ERs) belonging to the old yellow enzyme (OYE) family have been thoroughly investigated for the stereospecific reduction of activated prochiral C=C double bonds. In this work, OYE3 was immobilized both by covalent binding on glyoxyl-agarose (OYE3-GA), and by affinity-based adsorption on EziG [...] Read more.
Ene-reductases (ERs) belonging to the old yellow enzyme (OYE) family have been thoroughly investigated for the stereospecific reduction of activated prochiral C=C double bonds. In this work, OYE3 was immobilized both by covalent binding on glyoxyl-agarose (OYE3-GA), and by affinity-based adsorption on EziGTM particles (OYE3-EziG). The immobilized OYE3-GA was demonstrated to be active (activity recovery = 52%) and to retain almost 100% of its activity under the enzymatic assay conditions (50 mM phosphate buffer pH 7, 28 °C) for six days, whereas the activity of the non-immobilized enzyme dropped to 50% after two days. In the case of EziGTM, the highest activity recovery (54%) was achieved by using the most hydrophilic carrier (EziGTM Opal) that was selected for the full characterization of this type of enzyme preparation (stability, recycling, re-use, enzyme leakage). OYE3-EziG was slightly less stable than OYE3-GA under the same experimental conditions. OYE3-GA could be recycled and re-used for up to 12 reaction cycles in the bioreduction of α-methyl-trans-cinnamaldehyde; after 12 runs, the highest conversion achieved was 40%. In the case of the co-immobilized OYE3/GDH-EziG, the conversion dropped to 56% after two reaction cycles. No enzyme leakage was detected over 48 h for both OYE3-GA and OYE3/GDH-EziG (50 mM phosphate buffer pH 7, 28 °C). These seed results pave the way for a true optimization of the immobilization of OYE3, as well as for the use of immobilized OYE3 for preparative applications both in batch and continuous flow conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immobilization of Enzymes)
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14 pages, 3203 KiB  
Article
Nitric Acid Functionalization of Petroleum Coke to Access Inherent Sulfur
by Qing Huang, Annelisa S. Schafranski, Melanie J. Hazlett, Ye Xiao and Josephine M. Hill
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 259; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020259 - 20 Feb 2020
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6981
Abstract
Sulfonated carbon-based catalysts have been identified as promising solid acid catalysts, and petroleum coke (petcoke), a byproduct of the oil industry, is a potential feedstock for these catalysts. In this study, sulfur-containing (6.5 wt%) petcoke was used as a precursor for these catalysts [...] Read more.
Sulfonated carbon-based catalysts have been identified as promising solid acid catalysts, and petroleum coke (petcoke), a byproduct of the oil industry, is a potential feedstock for these catalysts. In this study, sulfur-containing (6.5 wt%) petcoke was used as a precursor for these catalysts through direct functionalization (i.e., without an activation step) with nitric acid to access the inherent sulfur. Catalysts were also prepared using sulfuric acid and a mixture of nitric and sulfuric acid (1:3 vol ratio). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and titration were used to identify and quantify the acid sites. The activities of the prepared catalysts were determined for the esterification of octanoic acid with methanol. Petcoke had few −SO3H groups, and correspondingly no catalytic activity for the reaction. All acid treatments increased the number of −SO3H groups and promoted esterification. Treatment with nitric acid alone resulted in the oxidation of the inherent sulfur in petcoke to produce ~0.7 mmol/g of strong acid sites and a total acidity of 5.3 mmol/g. The acidity (strong acid and total) was lower with sulfuric acid treatment but this sample was more active for the esterification reaction (TOF of 31 h−1 compared to 7 h−1 with nitric acid treatment). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Commemorative Issue in Honor of Professor Hugo de Lasa)
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11 pages, 1393 KiB  
Article
Biocatalytic Synthesis of Calycosin-7-O-β-D-Glucoside with Uridine Diphosphate–Glucose Regeneration System
by Yumei Hu, Jian Min, Yingying Qu, Xiao Zhang, Juankun Zhang, Xuejing Yu and Longhai Dai
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 258; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020258 - 20 Feb 2020
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3866
Abstract
Calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucoside (Cy7G) is one of the principal components of Radix astragali. This isoflavonoid glucoside is regarded as an indicator to assess the quality of R. astragali and exhibits diverse pharmacological activities. In this study, uridine diphosphate-dependent glucosyltransferase (UGT) UGT88E18 was [...] Read more.
Calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucoside (Cy7G) is one of the principal components of Radix astragali. This isoflavonoid glucoside is regarded as an indicator to assess the quality of R. astragali and exhibits diverse pharmacological activities. In this study, uridine diphosphate-dependent glucosyltransferase (UGT) UGT88E18 was isolated from Glycine max and expressed in Escherichia coli. Recombinant UGT88E18 could selectively and effectively glucosylate the C7 hydroxyl group of calycosin to synthesize Cy7G. A one-pot reaction by coupling UGT88E18 to sucrose synthase (SuSy) from G. max was developed. The UGT88E18–SuSy cascade reaction could recycle the costly uridine diphosphate glucose (UDPG) from cheap sucrose and catalytic amounts of uridine diphosphate (UDP). The important factors for UGT88E18–SuSy cascade reaction, including UGT88E18/SuSy ratios, different temperatures, and pH values, different concentrations of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), UDP, sucrose, and calycosin, were optimized. We produced 10.5 g L−1 Cy7G in the optimal reaction conditions by the stepwise addition of calycosin. The molar conversion of calycosin was 97.5%, with a space–time yield of 747 mg L−1 h−1 and a UDPG recycle of 78 times. The present study provides a new avenue for the efficient and cost-effective semisynthesis of Cy7G and other valuable isoflavonoid glucosides by UGT–SuSy cascade reaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocatalytic Process Optimization)
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12 pages, 3907 KiB  
Article
Influence of the Facets of Bi24O31Br10 Nanobelts and Nanosheets on Their Photocatalytic Properties
by Qindan Zeng, Wei Xie, Zhihong Chen, Xin Wang, Eser Metin Akinoglu, Guofu Zhou and Lingling Shui
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 257; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020257 - 20 Feb 2020
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3702
Abstract
Bi24O31Br10 microcrystals composed of nanobelts and nanosheets with exposed (30-4) and (117) facets were synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method. The desired morphology and facets were obtained by adjusting the pH of the reaction system. Bi24O [...] Read more.
Bi24O31Br10 microcrystals composed of nanobelts and nanosheets with exposed (30-4) and (117) facets were synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method. The desired morphology and facets were obtained by adjusting the pH of the reaction system. Bi24O31Br10 nanobelts (BOB-NBs) with dominant (30-4) exposed facets were used for the photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride under visible light irradiation, with a degradation efficiency of up to 91% after 60 min of irradiation. The BOB-NBs possessed a higher charge separation and transfer efficiency, and showed less charge carrier recombination compared to the Bi24O31Br10 nanosheets (BOB-NSs), ascribed to a cooperative effect between the internal electric fields and surface active sites. A higher photocurrent response (2.6 times higher) was observed for BOB-NBs (12.8 μA cm−2) compared to that of BOB-NSs (4.9 μA cm−2). These findings are directional for a comprehensive understanding of the influence of the crystal facets of Bi24O31Br10 microcrystals on their photocatalytic activity and could help to guide the future design of high-performance photocatalytic materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Pollutants and Inactivation of Microorganisms)
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10 pages, 2580 KiB  
Article
Activated Carbon/MnO2 Composites as Electrode for High Performance Supercapacitors
by Jang Rak Choi, Ji Won Lee, Guijun Yang, Young-Jung Heo and Soo-Jin Park
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 256; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020256 - 20 Feb 2020
Cited by 39 | Viewed by 7733
Abstract
Activated carbon (AC) was synthesized with various weight ratios of manganese dioxide (MO) through a simple hydrothermal approach. The electrochemical performance of the synthesized activated carbon/MnO2 composites was investigated. The effect of the activated carbon/MnO2 (AM) ratio on the electrochemical properties [...] Read more.
Activated carbon (AC) was synthesized with various weight ratios of manganese dioxide (MO) through a simple hydrothermal approach. The electrochemical performance of the synthesized activated carbon/MnO2 composites was investigated. The effect of the activated carbon/MnO2 (AM) ratio on the electrochemical properties of the activated carbon/MnO2 composites and the pore structure was also examined. The results show that the specific capacitance of the activated carbon material has been improved after the addition of MO. The as-synthesized composite material exhibits specific capacitance of 60.3 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, as well as stable cycle performance and 99.6% capacitance retention over 5000 cycles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electro-Catalysts for Energy Conversion and Storage Devices)
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17 pages, 17250 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Mechanocatalytic Pretreatment on the Structure and Depolymerization of Willow
by Henna Lempiäinen, Katja Lappalainen, Jasmiina Haverinen, Tero Tuuttila, Tao Hu, Mari Jaakkola and Ulla Lassi
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 255; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020255 - 19 Feb 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4863
Abstract
In this study, the effect of a mechanocatalytic pretreatment on the structure of willow and sugar release from pretreated willow was explored. In the mechanocatalytic approach, the pretreatment consists of solvent-free impregnation with sulfuric acid and a mechanical treatment with ball milling. Willow [...] Read more.
In this study, the effect of a mechanocatalytic pretreatment on the structure of willow and sugar release from pretreated willow was explored. In the mechanocatalytic approach, the pretreatment consists of solvent-free impregnation with sulfuric acid and a mechanical treatment with ball milling. Willow sawdust and pretreated samples were analyzed with field emission scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction. The products in the sugar solution were determined as the total reducing sugars with the 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid method and monosaccharides with capillary electrophoresis. According to the results, milling increased the sugar production, depending on the sulfuric acid load. The milling parameters, such as the rotation speed of the mill, the catalyst-to-willow ratio, and the milling time influenced the amount of sugars in the hydrolysate and the composition of the sugar solution produced. Changes were observed in the surface of the willow particles as well as changes in the crystalline structure. Glucose and xylose yields increased after 15 min of milling and reached their maximum level after 45 min of milling with the 0.5 mmol/g sulfuric acid load. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Direct Catalytic Conversion of Raw or Waste Biomass to Biofuels and Chemical Building Blocks)
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14 pages, 5675 KiB  
Article
Characterization of the Novel Ene Reductase Ppo-Er1 from Paenibacillus Polymyxa
by David Aregger, Christin Peters and Rebecca M. Buller
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 254; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020254 - 19 Feb 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5591
Abstract
Ene reductases enable the asymmetric hydrogenation of activated alkenes allowing the manufacture of valuable chiral products. The enzymes complement existing metal- and organocatalytic approaches for the stereoselective reduction of activated C=C double bonds, and efforts to expand the biocatalytic toolbox with additional ene [...] Read more.
Ene reductases enable the asymmetric hydrogenation of activated alkenes allowing the manufacture of valuable chiral products. The enzymes complement existing metal- and organocatalytic approaches for the stereoselective reduction of activated C=C double bonds, and efforts to expand the biocatalytic toolbox with additional ene reductases are of high academic and industrial interest. Here, we present the characterization of a novel ene reductase from Paenibacillus polymyxa, named Ppo-Er1, belonging to the recently identified subgroup III of the old yellow enzyme family. The determination of substrate scope, solvent stability, temperature, and pH range of Ppo-Er1 is one of the first examples of a detailed biophysical characterization of a subgroup III enzyme. Notably, Ppo-Er1 possesses a wide temperature optimum (Topt: 20–45 °C) and retains high conversion rates of at least 70% even at 10 °C reaction temperature making it an interesting biocatalyst for the conversion of temperature-labile substrates. When assaying a set of different organic solvents to determine Ppo-Er1′s solvent tolerance, the ene reductase exhibited good performance in up to 40% cyclohexane as well as 20 vol% DMSO and ethanol. In summary, Ppo-Er1 exhibited activity for thirteen out of the nineteen investigated compounds, for ten of which Michaelis–Menten kinetics could be determined. The enzyme exhibited the highest specificity constant for maleimide with a kcat/KM value of 287 mM−1 s−1. In addition, Ppo-Er1 proved to be highly enantioselective for selected substrates with measured enantiomeric excess values of 92% or higher for 2-methyl-2-cyclohexenone, citral, and carvone. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Enzyme and Whole-Cell Biocatalysts)
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18 pages, 3570 KiB  
Article
SnO2-Containing Clinoptilolite as a Composite Photocatalyst for Dyes Removal from Wastewater under Solar Light
by Andraž Šuligoj, Jelena Pavlović, Iztok Arčon, Nevenka Rajić and Nataša Novak Tušar
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020253 - 19 Feb 2020
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4083
Abstract
Due to their adsorbent, ion exchange and catalytic properties zeolites are suitable for a variety of applications. We report on the photocatalytic activity of a readily available and inexpensive natural zeolite clinoptilolite (Z) containing SnO2 (Sn-Z). The Sn-Z samples with 3–15 wt. [...] Read more.
Due to their adsorbent, ion exchange and catalytic properties zeolites are suitable for a variety of applications. We report on the photocatalytic activity of a readily available and inexpensive natural zeolite clinoptilolite (Z) containing SnO2 (Sn-Z). The Sn-Z samples with 3–15 wt. % of Sn were prepared by using a precipitation–deposition method. Powder X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the zeolite structure was unaffected by the introduction of the Sn-phase. Diffuse reflectance UV/VIS spectra of the Sn-Z samples confirmed the presence of SnO2 and X-Ray absorption spectroscopy analyses suggested that the SnO2 particles mainly resided on the surface of the clinoptilolite, while ATR-FTIR analysis gave some clues that part of the SnO2 phase was incorporated in the pores of the zeolite. The presence of SnO2 in Sn-Z increased both adsorption capacity and photocatalytic performance which could be partially explained by higher surface area and partially with an increased negative potential of the surface. Adsorption and total degradation of methylene blue (MB) for the Sn-Z with the highest amount of Sn (15 wt.%) was about 30% and 45%, respectively, suggesting a synergetic effect between SnO2 and the clinoptilolite lattice. Reusability tests showed that these catalysts present a promising material for water purification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Catalysis in Advanced Oxidation Processes)
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13 pages, 2914 KiB  
Article
N-Hydroxyphthalimide Supported on Silica Coated with Ionic Liquids Containing CoCl2 (SCILLs) as New Catalytic System for Solvent-Free Ethylbenzene Oxidation
by Gabriela Dobras, Kornela Kasperczyk, Sebastian Jurczyk and Beata Orlińska
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 252; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020252 - 19 Feb 2020
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4294
Abstract
N-Hydroxyphthalimide was immobilized via ester bond on commercially available silica gel (SiOCONHPI) and then coated with various ionic liquids containing dissolved CoCl2 (SiOCONHPI@CoCl2@IL). New catalysts were characterized by means of FT IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, SEM and TGA analysis [...] Read more.
N-Hydroxyphthalimide was immobilized via ester bond on commercially available silica gel (SiOCONHPI) and then coated with various ionic liquids containing dissolved CoCl2 (SiOCONHPI@CoCl2@IL). New catalysts were characterized by means of FT IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, SEM and TGA analysis and used in ethylbenzene oxidation with oxygen under mild solvent-free conditions (80 °C, 0.1 MPa). High catalytic activity of SiOCONHPI was proved. In comparison to a non-catalytic reaction, a two-fold increase in conversion of ethylbenzene was observed (from 4.7% to 8.6%). Coating of SiOCONHPI with [bmim][OcOSO3], [bmim][Cl] and [bmim][CF3SO3] containing CoCl2 enabled to increase the catalytic activity in relation to systems in which IL and CoCl2 were added directly to reaction mixture. The highest conversion of ethylbenzene was obtained while SiOCONHPI@CoCl2@[bmim][OcOSO3] were used (12.1%). Catalysts recovery and reuse was also studied. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ionic Liquids in Catalysis)
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18 pages, 4092 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Visible Light Photocatalytic Activity of N and Ag Doped and Co-Doped TiO2 Synthesized by Using an In-Situ Solvothermal Method for Gas Phase Ammonia Removal
by Adilah Sirivallop, Thanita Areerob and Siriluk Chiarakorn
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020251 - 19 Feb 2020
Cited by 69 | Viewed by 8792
Abstract
Single doping and co-doping of N and Ag on TiO2 were successfully prepared by using an in-situ solvothermal method and their structural properties and chemical compositions were characterized. The results indicated that all photocatalysts displayed in TiO2 anatase crystal phase, and [...] Read more.
Single doping and co-doping of N and Ag on TiO2 were successfully prepared by using an in-situ solvothermal method and their structural properties and chemical compositions were characterized. The results indicated that all photocatalysts displayed in TiO2 anatase crystal phase, and a small mesoporous structure was observed in the doped materials. The main roles of N and Ag on the property and photocatalytic activity of TiO2 were different. The N doping has significantly enhanced homogenous surface morphology and specific surface area of the photocatalyst. While Ag doping was narrowing the band gap energy, extending light absorption toward a visible region by surface plasmon resonance as well as delaying the recombination rate of electron and hole of TiO2. The existence of N in TiO2 lattice was observed in two structural linkages such as substitutional nitrogen (Ti-O-N) and interstitial nitrogen (O-Ti-N). Silver species could be in the form of Ag0 and Ag2O. The photocatalytic performance of the photocatalysts coated on stainless steel mesh was investigated by the degradation of aqueous MB and gas phase NH3 under visible LED light illumination for three recycling runs. The highest photocatalytic activity and recyclability were reached in 5% N/Ag-TiO2 showing the efficiency of 98.82% for methylene blue (MB) dye degradation and 37.5% for NH3 removal in 6 h, which was 2.7 and 4.3 times, respectively. This is greater than that of pure TiO2. This was due to the synergistic effect of N and Ag doping. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Commemorative Issue in Honor of Professor Hugo de Lasa)
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11 pages, 2427 KiB  
Article
Development of (γ-Al2O3-Zeolite Y)/α-Al2O3-HPCM Catalyst based on Highly Porous α-Al2O3-HPCM Support for Decreasing Oil Viscosity
by Alexey Kirgizov, Gulnaz Valieva, Artem Laskin, Il’dar Il’yasov and Alexander Lamberov
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 250; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020250 - 19 Feb 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3133
Abstract
Highly porous cellular material (α-Al2O3-HPCM) support was synthesized by the template method. Highly porous support was used for the synthesis of the catalyst. A thin secondary layer with 25–30 μ thick γ-Al2O3 and zeolite Y was [...] Read more.
Highly porous cellular material (α-Al2O3-HPCM) support was synthesized by the template method. Highly porous support was used for the synthesis of the catalyst. A thin secondary layer with 25–30 μ thick γ-Al2O3 and zeolite Y was applied on the α-Al2O3-HPCM surface ((γ-Al2O3 (85%)-zeolite Y (15%))/α-Al2O3-HPCM). The catalyst based on the highly porous support was tested in a process of decreasing oil viscosity. The catalyst in the form of cylindrical granules and a thermal process of decreasing oil viscosity without the catalyst were used as the basis for comparison. α-Al2O3-HPCM in the catalyst provides low-quantity pores (d < 10 nm) and a quantity of general acid centers compared with the granular catalyst. On the other hand, it shows a more significant oil viscosity decrease (from 2500 to 41 cPs) and a low rate of gas generation (137 mL/h) for the catalyst with highly porous support. A high oil fraction was observed in the presence of the (γ-Al2O3-zeolite Y)/α-Al2O3-HPCM compared to the granular catalyst. The presence of large transport cells (pores) 1500–2000 μ for the catalyst based on highly porous support allowed a work period four times longer than that of experiment only with temperature without catalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structured Materials for Catalytic Applications)
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13 pages, 4285 KiB  
Article
NOM (HA and FA) Reduction in Water Using Nano Titanium Dioxide Photocatalysts (P25 and P90) and Membranes
by Mariola Rajca
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020249 - 19 Feb 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3274
Abstract
This study examined the removal of natural organic substances (humic acids-HA, and fulvic acids-FA) from model solutions using photocatalysis and ultrafiltration. The effect of two nano titanium dioxide types (P25 and P90) with different active surface areas and two UV lamps (low-pressure and [...] Read more.
This study examined the removal of natural organic substances (humic acids-HA, and fulvic acids-FA) from model solutions using photocatalysis and ultrafiltration. The effect of two nano titanium dioxide types (P25 and P90) with different active surface areas and two UV lamps (low-pressure and medium-pressure) on the effectiveness of FA and HA removal during photocatalysis was tested. An integrated photocatalytic + ultrafiltration system was also analyzed to determine the effectiveness of FA and HA removal and the changes in the relative permeate flux (Ultrafiltration Membrane Fouling-UF). We observed that photocatalysis using the P90 nano titanium dioxide was more efficient than the P25 due to the larger surface area (2×). The decomposition of organic substances proceeded efficiently up to 30 min of solution exposure, and the use of a medium-pressure lamp accelerated compound decomposition relative to the low-pressure lamp. The applied photocatalysis + ultrafiltration system was characterized by a high degree of FA removal while improved hydraulic efficiency was observed during ultrafiltration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Wastes in Water)
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14 pages, 3511 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Carbon Content on Methanol Oxidation and Photo-Oxidation at Pt-TiO2-C Electrodes
by Athanasios Papaderakis, Olga Spyridou, Nikolaos Karanasios, Aikaterini Touni, Angeliki Banti, Nina Dimitrova, Stephan Armyanov, Eugenia Valova, Jenia Georgieva and Sotiris Sotiropoulos
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020248 - 19 Feb 2020
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4508
Abstract
The oxidation of methanol is studied at TiO2-supported Pt electrodes of varied high surface area carbon content (in the 30-5% w/w range) and C÷Ti atom ratio (in the 3.0-0.4 ratio). The Pt-TiO2 catalyst is prepared by a photo-deposition process and [...] Read more.
The oxidation of methanol is studied at TiO2-supported Pt electrodes of varied high surface area carbon content (in the 30-5% w/w range) and C÷Ti atom ratio (in the 3.0-0.4 ratio). The Pt-TiO2 catalyst is prepared by a photo-deposition process and C nanoparticles (Vulcan XC72R) are added by simple ultrasonic mixing. The optimum C÷Ti atom ratio of the prepared catalyst for methanol electro-oxidation is found to be 1.5, resulting from the interplay of C properties (increased electronic conductivity and methanol adsorption), those of TiO2 (synergistic effect on Pt and photo-activity), as well as the catalyst film thickness. The intrinsic catalytic activity of the best Pt-TiO2/C catalyst is better than that of a commercial Pt/C catalyst and could be further improved by nearly 25% upon UV illumination, whose periodic application can also limit current deterioration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photocatalytic Nanocomposite Materials)
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3 pages, 365 KiB  
Editorial
Editorial: Special Issue Catalysis by Precious Metals, Past and Future
by Svetlana Ivanova and Marcela Martínez Tejada
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020247 - 19 Feb 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3120
Abstract
Precious metal catalysis is often synonymous with diversity and versatility [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis by Precious Metals, Past and Future)
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58 pages, 2775 KiB  
Review
Microwaves and Heterogeneous Catalysis: A Review on Selected Catalytic Processes
by Vincenzo Palma, Daniela Barba, Marta Cortese, Marco Martino, Simona Renda and Eugenio Meloni
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 246; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020246 - 18 Feb 2020
Cited by 195 | Viewed by 20437
Abstract
Since the late 1980s, the scientific community has been attracted to microwave energy as an alternative method of heating, due to the advantages that this technology offers over conventional heating technologies. In fact, differently from these, the microwave heating mechanism is a volumetric [...] Read more.
Since the late 1980s, the scientific community has been attracted to microwave energy as an alternative method of heating, due to the advantages that this technology offers over conventional heating technologies. In fact, differently from these, the microwave heating mechanism is a volumetric process in which heat is generated within the material itself, and, consequently, it can be very rapid and selective. In this way, the microwave-susceptible material can absorb the energy embodied in the microwaves. Application of the microwave heating technique to a chemical process can lead to both a reduction in processing time as well as an increase in the production rate, which is obtained by enhancing the chemical reactions and results in energy saving. The synthesis and sintering of materials by means of microwave radiation has been used for more than 20 years, while, future challenges will be, among others, the development of processes that achieve lower greenhouse gas (e.g., CO2) emissions and discover novel energy-saving catalyzed reactions. A natural choice in such efforts would be the combination of catalysis and microwave radiation. The main aim of this review is to give an overview of microwave applications in the heterogeneous catalysis, including the preparation of catalysts, as well as explore some selected microwave assisted catalytic reactions. The review is divided into three principal topics: (i) introduction to microwave chemistry and microwave materials processing; (ii) description of the loss mechanisms and microwave-specific effects in heterogeneous catalysis; and (iii) applications of microwaves in some selected chemical processes, including the preparation of heterogeneous catalysts. Full article
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15 pages, 3938 KiB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review of the Applications of Hierarchical Zeolite Nanosheets and Nanoparticle Assemblies in Light Olefin Production
by Pannida Dugkhuntod and Chularat Wattanakit
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020245 - 18 Feb 2020
Cited by 37 | Viewed by 6892
Abstract
Light olefins including ethylene, propylene and butylene are important building blocks in petrochemical industries to produce various chemicals such as polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene oxide and cumene. Traditionally, light olefins are produced via a steam cracking process operated at an extremely high temperature. The [...] Read more.
Light olefins including ethylene, propylene and butylene are important building blocks in petrochemical industries to produce various chemicals such as polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene oxide and cumene. Traditionally, light olefins are produced via a steam cracking process operated at an extremely high temperature. The catalytic conversion, in which zeolites have been widely used, is an alternative pathway using a lower temperature. However, conventional zeolites, composed of a pure microporous structure, restrict the diffusion of large molecules into the framework, resulting in coke formation and further side reactions. To overcome these problems, hierarchical zeolites composed of additional mesoporous and/or macroporous structures have been widely researched over the past decade. In this review, the recent development of hierarchical zeolite nanosheets and nanoparticle assemblies together with opening up their applications in various light olefin productions such as catalytic cracking, ethanol dehydration to ethylene, methanol to olefins (MTO) and other reactions will be presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis and Application of Zeolite Catalysts)
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18 pages, 4150 KiB  
Article
Simultaneous Catalysis of Sulfite Oxidation and Uptake of Heavy Metals by Bifunctional Activated Carbon Fiber in Magnesia Desulfurization
by Yuguo Wang, Tieyue Qi, Mengxuan Hu, Yu Yang, Lei Xing and Lidong Wang
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 244; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020244 - 18 Feb 2020
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3838
Abstract
Sulfite and heavy metals are crucial pollutants in the slurry produced by flue gas desulfurization. In this study, a novel cobalt-based activated carbon fiber (Co-ACFs) catalyst-adsorbent was synthesized using an impregnation method; this bifunctional catalyst-adsorbent was used in wet magnesia desulfurization for the [...] Read more.
Sulfite and heavy metals are crucial pollutants in the slurry produced by flue gas desulfurization. In this study, a novel cobalt-based activated carbon fiber (Co-ACFs) catalyst-adsorbent was synthesized using an impregnation method; this bifunctional catalyst-adsorbent was used in wet magnesia desulfurization for the simultaneous catalytic oxidation of magnesium sulfite and uptake of heavy metal (Hg2+, Cd2+, and Ni2+) ions. The morphology and surface chemistry of ACFs before and after cobalt loading were investigated using various characterization methods. The kinetics on catalytic oxidation of magnesium sulfite was investigated, and the effects of operation conditions on the simultaneous adsorption capacity of heavy metals were examined. Relative to a non-catalysis material, the 40% Co-ACFs material increased the oxidation rate of magnesium sulfite by more than five times. The Langmuir model can describe the adsorption behavior of Co-ACFs on Hg2+, Cd2+, and Ni2+, indicating that the simultaneous uptake of heavy metals is a single-layer adsorption process. The maximum adsorption capacities for Hg2+, Cd2+, and Ni2+ are 333.3, 500, and 52.6 mg/g, respectively. A pseudo-second-order model confirmed that the removal of heavy metals is controlled by the chemisorption process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Environmental Catalysis - The 19th National Congress on Catalysis of China)
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15 pages, 4337 KiB  
Article
Co-Supported CeO2Nanoparticles for CO Catalytic Oxidation: Effects of Different Synthesis Methods on Catalytic Performance
by Chao Sui, LeHong Xing, Xue Cai, Yang Wang, Qi Zhou and Minghao Li
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020243 - 18 Feb 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4129
Abstract
Hydrothermal and co-precipitation methods were studied as two different methods for the synthesis of CeO2nanocatalysts. Co/CeO2 catalysts supported by 2, 4, 6, or 8wt% Co were further synthesized through impregnation and the performance of the catalytic oxidation of CO has [...] Read more.
Hydrothermal and co-precipitation methods were studied as two different methods for the synthesis of CeO2nanocatalysts. Co/CeO2 catalysts supported by 2, 4, 6, or 8wt% Co were further synthesized through impregnation and the performance of the catalytic oxidation of CO has been investigated. The highest specific surface area and the best catalytic performance was obtained by the catalyst 4wt% Co/CeO2 with the CeO2 support synthesized by the hydrothermal method (4% Co/CeO2-h), which yielded 100% CO conversion at 130 °C. The formation of CeO2 nanoparticles was confirmed by TEM analysis. XRD and SEM-EDX mapping analyses indicated that CoOx is highly dispersed on the 4% Co/CeO2-h catalyst surface. H2-TPR and O2-TPD results showed that 4% Co/CeO2-h possesses the best redox properties and the highest amount of chemically adsorbed oxygen on its surface among all tested catalysts. Raman and XPS spectra showed strong interactions between highly dispersed Co2+ active sites and exposed Ce3+ on the surface of the CeO2 support, resulting in the formation of the strong redox cycle Ce4+ + Co2+↔ Ce3+ + Co3+.This may explain that 4% Co/CeO2-h exhibited the best catalytic activity among all tested catalysts. Full article
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16 pages, 2632 KiB  
Article
Dry Reforming of Methane Using Ce-modified Ni Supported on 8%PO4 + ZrO2 Catalysts
by Ahmed A. Ibrahim, Ahmed S. Al-Fatesh, Nadavala Siva Kumar, Ahmed E. Abasaeed, Samsudeen O. Kasim and Anis H. Fakeeha
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020242 - 18 Feb 2020
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5348
Abstract
Dry reforming of methane (DRM) was studied in the light of Ni supported on 8%PO4 + ZrO2 catalysts. Cerium was used to modify the Ni active metal. Different percentage loadings of Ce (1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, 3%, and 5%) were tested. [...] Read more.
Dry reforming of methane (DRM) was studied in the light of Ni supported on 8%PO4 + ZrO2 catalysts. Cerium was used to modify the Ni active metal. Different percentage loadings of Ce (1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, 3%, and 5%) were tested. The wet incipient impregnation method was used for the preparation of all catalysts. The catalysts were activated at 700 °C for ½ h. The reactions were performed at 800 °C using a gas hourly space velocity of 28,000 mL (h·gcat)−1. X-ray diffraction (XRD), N2 physisorption, hydrogen temperature programmed reduction (H2-TPR), temperature programmed oxidation (TPO), temperature programmed desorption (TPD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were used for characterizing the catalysts. The TGA analysis depicted minor amounts of carbon deposition. The CO2-TPD results showed that Ce enhanced the basicity of the catalysts. The 3% Ce loading possessed the highest surface area, the largest pore volume, and the greatest pore diameter. All the promoted catalysts enhanced the conversions of CH4 and CO2. Among the promoted catalysts tested, the 10Ni + 3%Ce/8%PO4 + ZrO2 catalyst system operated at 1 bar and at 800 °C gave the highest conversions of CH4 (95%) and CO2 (96%). The stability profile of Cerium-modified catalysts (10%Ni/8%PO4 + ZrO2) depicted steady CH4 and CO2 conversions during the 7.5 h time on stream. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nickel-Based Catalysts)
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13 pages, 3418 KiB  
Article
Biofuels of Green Diesel–Kerosene–Gasoline Production from Palm Oil: Effect of Palladium Cooperated with Second Metal on Hydrocracking Reaction
by Nithinun Srihanun, Praepilas Dujjanutat, Papasanee Muanruksa and Pakawadee Kaewkannetra
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020241 - 18 Feb 2020
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 5713
Abstract
In this work, two kinds of catalyst called monometallic Palladium (Pd) and a bimetallic of Pd-Iron (Fe) were synthesised using aluminum oxide (Al2O3) as the supported material via the wet impregnate method. A monometallic catalyst (0.5% Pd/Al2O [...] Read more.
In this work, two kinds of catalyst called monometallic Palladium (Pd) and a bimetallic of Pd-Iron (Fe) were synthesised using aluminum oxide (Al2O3) as the supported material via the wet impregnate method. A monometallic catalyst (0.5% Pd/Al2O3) named Pd cat was used as control. For the bimetallic catalyst, ratios of Pd to Fe were varied, and included 0.38% Pd–0.12% Fe (PF1), 0.25% Pd–0.25% Fe (PF2), and 0.12% Pd–0.38% Fe (PF3). The catalysts were characterised to investigate physical properties such as the surface area, pore size, porosity, and pore size distribution including their composition by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). Subsequently, all catalysts were applied for biofuels production in terms of green diesel/kerosene/gasoline from palm oil via a hydrocracking reaction. The results showed that the loading of Fe to Pd/Al2O3 could improve the active surface area, porosity, and pore diameter. Considering the catalytic efficiency for the hydrocracking reaction, the highest crude biofuel yield (94.00%) was obtained in the presence of PF3 catalyst, while Pd cat provided the highest refined biofuel yield (86.00%). The largest proportion of biofuel production was green diesel (50.00–62.02%) followed by green kerosene (31.71–43.02%) and green gasoline (6.10–8.11%), respectively. It was clearly shown that the Pd-Fe bimetallic and Pd monometallic catalysts showed potential for use as chemical catalysts in hydrocracking reactions for biofuel production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomass Catalysis)
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10 pages, 6072 KiB  
Communication
Utilization of Coal Fly Ash and Rice Hull Ash as Geopolymer Matrix-cum-Metal Dopant Applied to Visible-Light-Active Nanotitania Photocatalyst System for Degradation of Dye in Wastewater
by Eiza Shimizu, Michael Angelo Promentilla and Derrick Ethelbhert Yu
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020240 - 17 Feb 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3684
Abstract
Geopolymer (GP) spheres made from coal fly ash (FA) and rice hull ash (RHA) waste products are utilized as both support matrix and dopant applied to titania (TiO2) photocatalyst for organic dye degradation in wastewater. Processing of FA and RHA via [...] Read more.
Geopolymer (GP) spheres made from coal fly ash (FA) and rice hull ash (RHA) waste products are utilized as both support matrix and dopant applied to titania (TiO2) photocatalyst for organic dye degradation in wastewater. Processing of FA and RHA via suspension-solidification method resulted in GP spheres with nanoporous morphology. The nanocrevices enabled low-energy sol-gel TiO2 coating technique because they served as anchoring sites on the geopolymer surface that favored rigidity and larger surface area. The GP-TiO2 system has been characterized by infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy revealed a narrowing of the GP-TiO2 system optical band gap due to the interaction of metal dopants contained in RHA and FA with TiO2, thus making the GP-TiO2 system a visible-light-active photocatalyst, as confirmed by methylene blue dye degradation measured through UV-Vis spectroscopy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation of Catalysts from Renewable and Waste Materials)
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12 pages, 2885 KiB  
Article
Study of the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Using Ionic Liquid/Cobalt Porphyrin Systems as Electro and Photoelectrocatalysts
by Leyla Gidi, Jessica Honores, José Ibarra, Roxana Arce, M. J Aguirre and Galo Ramírez
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020239 - 17 Feb 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3643
Abstract
In this work, the design and manufacture of graphite paste (Gr) electrodes is carried out, including N-octylpyridinium hexafluorophosphate (OPyPF6) ionic liquid (IL) as binder and modification with Co-octaethylporphyrin (Co), in order to study the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in the [...] Read more.
In this work, the design and manufacture of graphite paste (Gr) electrodes is carried out, including N-octylpyridinium hexafluorophosphate (OPyPF6) ionic liquid (IL) as binder and modification with Co-octaethylporphyrin (Co), in order to study the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in the absence and presence of light. The system is characterized by XRD and FESEM-EDX (Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy), confirming the presence of all the components of the system in the electrode surface. The studies carried out in this investigation confirm that a photoelectrocatalytic system towards HER is obtained. The system is stable, efficient and easy to prepare. Through cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, was determined that these electrodes improve their electrochemical and electrical properties upon the addition of OPyPF6. These effects improve even more when the systems are modified with Co porphyrin. It is also observed that when the systems are irradiated at 395 nm, the redox process is favored in energy terms, as well as in its electrical properties. Through gas chromatography, it was determined that the graphite paste electrode in the presence of ionic liquid and porphyrin (Gr/IL/Co) presents a high turnover number (TON) value (6342 and 6827 in presence of light) in comparison to similar systems reported. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electro-Catalysts for Energy Conversion and Storage Devices)
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14 pages, 3307 KiB  
Article
The Influence of The Light-Activated Titania P25 on Human Breast Cancer Cells
by Agata Markowska-Szczupak, Zhishun Wei and Ewa Kowalska
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020238 - 17 Feb 2020
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4010
Abstract
Cosmetics and other daily care products contain titanium(IV) oxide (titania). Since multiple risk factors can increase the chance of developing cancer, an evaluation of titania safety has become a matter of concern in recent times. However, it should be pointed out that titania [...] Read more.
Cosmetics and other daily care products contain titanium(IV) oxide (titania). Since multiple risk factors can increase the chance of developing cancer, an evaluation of titania safety has become a matter of concern in recent times. However, it should be pointed out that titania as an efficient photocatalyst has been also applied for inactivation of various pathogens, environmental purification and energy conversion, which might result in significant improvement of human life. Therefore, it is worth considering titania not only as a possible cancer initiator, but also as an efficient solution against cancer cells. Accordingly, in this study, the effect of commercial titania photocatalyst P25 (Degussa/Evonik) on breast adenocarcinoma MCF7 cells (ATCC® HTB-22™, breast adenocarcinoma cell line from human) has been investigated. The cells were treated with titania at doses of 10, 30, and 50 µg/mL under UVA/vis irradiation and in the dark. The significant morphological alterations in living cells were observed for larger doses of titania, such as changes in the shape and the size of cells, the deviation from the normal structure, and an increase in cells’ mortality. Moreover, the effect was significantly higher under irradiation than in the dark confirming strong photocatalytic activity of titania P25. In contrast, the lowest dose of titania (10 µg/mL) did not exhibit a significant impact on MCF7 cells, similarly to the nontreated cells. Accordingly, it has been proposed that locally applied titania might be considered for a cancer therapy after necessary in vivo tests to estimate any possibilities of side effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Commemorative Issue in Honor of Professor Hugo de Lasa)
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20 pages, 1889 KiB  
Review
Biodiesel Production Using Solid Acid Catalysts Based on Metal Oxides
by Katja Vasić, Gordana Hojnik Podrepšek, Željko Knez and Maja Leitgeb
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020237 - 17 Feb 2020
Cited by 105 | Viewed by 25306
Abstract
The development of solid acid catalysts, especially based on metal oxides and different magnetic nanoparticles, gained much awareness recently as a result of the development of different nano-based materials. Solid acid catalysts based on metal oxides are promising for the (trans)esterification reactions of [...] Read more.
The development of solid acid catalysts, especially based on metal oxides and different magnetic nanoparticles, gained much awareness recently as a result of the development of different nano-based materials. Solid acid catalysts based on metal oxides are promising for the (trans)esterification reactions of different oils and waste materials for biodiesel production. This review gives a brief overview of recent developments in various solid acid catalysts based on different metal oxides, such as zirconia, zinc, titanium, iron, tungsten, and magnetic materials, where the catalysts are optimized for various reaction parameters, such as the amount of catalyst, molar ratio of oil to alcohol, reaction time, and temperature. Furthermore, yields and conversions for biodiesel production are compared. Such metal-oxide-based solid acid catalysts provide more sustainable, green, and easy-separation synthesis routes with high catalytic activity and reusability than traditionally used catalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solid Acid Catalysts for Biodiesel Production)
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