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Modifying Surface Activity of Rhodium Catalysts Dissolved in Ionic Liquids by Ligand Exchange
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Biosynthesis of Furfurylamines in Batch and Continuous Flow by Immobilized Amine Transaminases
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Main Routes of Production of High-Value-Added 2,5-Furandincarboxylic Acid Using Heterogeneous Catalytic Systems
Journal Description
Catalysts
Catalysts
is a peer-reviewed open access journal of catalysts and catalyzed reactions published monthly online by MDPI. The Romanian Catalysis Society (RCS) are partners of Catalysts journal and its members receive a discount on the article processing charge.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), Inspec, CAPlus / SciFinder, CAB Abstracts, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Chemistry, Physical) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Environmental Science)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 13.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.9 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.2 (2022)
Latest Articles
Promoting Bifunctional Oxygen Catalyst Activity of Double-Perovskite-Type Cubic Nanocrystallites for Aqueous and Quasi-Solid-State Rechargeable Zinc-Air Batteries
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1332; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101332 (registering DOI) - 29 Sep 2023
Abstract
Transition metal oxide materials are promising oxygen catalysts that are alternatives to expensive and precious metal-containing catalysts. Integration of transition metal oxides with high activity for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is an important pathway for good bifunctionality. In
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Transition metal oxide materials are promising oxygen catalysts that are alternatives to expensive and precious metal-containing catalysts. Integration of transition metal oxides with high activity for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is an important pathway for good bifunctionality. In contrast to the conventional physical mixing and hybridization strategies, perovskite-type oxide provides an ideal structure for the integration of the transition metal element atoms on an atomic scale. Herein, B-site ordered double-perovskite-type La1.6Sr0.4MnCoO6 nanocrystallites with ultra-small cubic (20–50 nm) morphology and high specific surface areas (25 m2 g−1) were proposed. Rational designs were integrated to promote the ORR-OER catalysis, e.g., introducing oxygen vacancies via A-site cation substitution, further increasing surface oxygen vacancies via integration of a small amount of Pt/C and nanosizing of the material via a facile molten-salt method. The batteries with the La1.6Sr0.4MnCoO6 nanocrystallites and an aqueous alkaline electrolyte demonstrate decent discharge−charge voltage gaps of 0.75 and 1.10 V at 1 and 30 mA cm−2, respectively, and good cycling stability of 250 h (1500 cycles). A coin-type battery with a gel−polymer electrolyte also presents a good performance.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Electrocatalytic Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage: Fuel Cells, Electrolysis, and Metal-Air Batteries)
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Prominent COF, g-C3N4, and Their Heterojunction Materials for Selective Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
by
, , , , , and
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1331; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101331 (registering DOI) - 29 Sep 2023
Abstract
New heterojunction materials (HJs) were synthesized in-situ by molecularly bonding the monomers of a triazine-based covalent organic framework (bulk COF) on the template of exfoliated carbon nitride (g-C3N4). The photocatalysts reduced carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide in aqueous dispersions
[...] Read more.
New heterojunction materials (HJs) were synthesized in-situ by molecularly bonding the monomers of a triazine-based covalent organic framework (bulk COF) on the template of exfoliated carbon nitride (g-C3N4). The photocatalysts reduced carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide in aqueous dispersions under UV irradiation. The g-C3N4 showed production of 6.50 mol CO g−1 h−1 and the bulk COF of 2.77 mol CO g−1 h−1. The CO yield was evaluated in sustainability photoreduction cycles and their CO2 uptake capacity and isosteric heat of adsorption were estimated. All the heterojunction photocatalysts obtained ameliorated CO production rates compared to the bulk COF. Finally, the influence of the Pt co-catalyst on the photocatalytic activities was determined without the addition of any sacrificial agent, and the COF:g-C3N4 heterojunction with the ratio of 1:10 was proven to be a photocatalytic system with an optimum and selective, CO yield of 7.56 mol g−1 h−1.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Photocatalysts in Air Pollution)
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Open AccessArticle
CCl4-TMEDA-CuCl—A Novel Convenient Catalytic System for Dimerization of Terminal Acetylenes in Mild Conditions
by
, , , , and
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1330; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101330 - 28 Sep 2023
Abstract
A novel catalytic system for homocoupling terminal acetylenes was elaborated based on CuCl as a catalyst (10 mol%), TMEDA as a base and CCl4 as an oxidant. The influence of the solvent, base, amount of catalyst and CCl4 on the reaction
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A novel catalytic system for homocoupling terminal acetylenes was elaborated based on CuCl as a catalyst (10 mol%), TMEDA as a base and CCl4 as an oxidant. The influence of the solvent, base, amount of catalyst and CCl4 on the reaction was investigated. Methanol was found to be the solvent of choice. The broad synthetic scope of the reaction was demonstrated. Diynes with various substituents were prepared in up to 92% yields. The possible reaction mechanism is discussed.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Free Radicals in Catalysis, Organic Synthesis, and Material Science)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Highly Efficient Catalytic Hydrodeoxygenation for Aliphatic Acid to Liquid Alkane: The Role of Molybdenum
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1329; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101329 - 28 Sep 2023
Abstract
A series of NiM/SiO2 (M = Ce, Co, Cu, Fe, Sn, Zr, Mo) catalysts are prepared and used in the selective hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of aliphatic acid to produce alkanes with the same number of carbon atoms as the reactant (alkane-Cx). The results
[...] Read more.
A series of NiM/SiO2 (M = Ce, Co, Cu, Fe, Sn, Zr, Mo) catalysts are prepared and used in the selective hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of aliphatic acid to produce alkanes with the same number of carbon atoms as the reactant (alkane-Cx). The results indicate the introduction of Mo promotes the hydrodehydration of aliphatic alcohol and suppresses the decarbonylation of aliphatic aldehyde. The selective to alkane-Cx is more than 70% in the case of a complete conversion of aliphatic acid. A mechanism study proves that, due to the higher electronegativity of Mo, electrons transfer from Ni to Mo easily and facilitate the reduction of Mo, and the partially reduced Mo species is favorable for the hydrodehydration of aliphatic alcohol. Meanwhile, the adsorption of alcohol on Mo is more favorable than on the Ni site, and the hydrogen bond between hydroxyl hydrogen and O atoms on the catalyst improves the adsorption stability of aliphatic alcohol. Further COHP analysis indicates that the C-OH bond was activated when alcohol was adsorbed on the Ni5/MoO2 surface, which promoted the hydrodehydration of aliphatic alcohols and improved carbon atom utilization.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials for Application in Catalysis)
Open AccessArticle
ZnO-Bi2O3 Heterostructured Composite for the Photocatalytic Degradation of Orange 16 Reactive Dye: Synergistic Effect of UV Irradiation and Hydrogen Peroxide
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1328; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101328 - 28 Sep 2023
Abstract
The development of semiconductor photocatalysts has recently witnessed notable momentum in the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. ZnO is one of the most widely used photocatalysts; however, its activity is limited by the inefficient absorption of visible light and the fast electron–hole recombination.
[...] Read more.
The development of semiconductor photocatalysts has recently witnessed notable momentum in the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. ZnO is one of the most widely used photocatalysts; however, its activity is limited by the inefficient absorption of visible light and the fast electron–hole recombination. The incorporation of another metal or semiconductor with ZnO boosts its performance. In this present study, a heterostructured ZnO-Bi2O3 composite was synthesized via a simple co-precipitation method and was investigated for the UV-driven photocatalytic degradation of the Reactive Orange 16 (RO16), a model textile dye. The successful fabrication of ZnO-Bi2O3 microstructures with crystalline nature was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX). The discoloration of the dye solution was quantified using UV–Vis spectroscopy to determine the photocatalytic efficiency. The photocatalytic activity results demonstrated that the photodegradation at ZnO-Bi2O3 heterojunction was more efficient and 300 and 33% faster than individual Bi2O3 and ZnO catalysts, respectively, an effect that is indicative of a synergistic effect. In the presence of ZnO-Bi2O3 particles, the UV light-driven activity for RO16 degradation was twice as high as in its absence. The influence of adding the oxidant H2O2 on the UV-induced photocatalytic degradation was investigated and the results revealed a two-time increase in the photocatalytic activity of ZnO-Bi2O3 compared to UV irradiation alone, which could be ascribed to a summative degradative effect between UV and H2O2. Hence, this approach holds the potential for environmentally friendly wastewater treatment.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Perovskite and Metal Oxide Photocatalysts and Electrocatalysts)
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Open AccessArticle
Synthesis of Precursors to Ethylene Glycol via the Acid-Catalyzed Carbonylation of Formaldehyde
by
and
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1327; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101327 - 28 Sep 2023
Abstract
Methyl glycolate was synthesized as a precursor to ethylene glycol from the acid-catalyzed carbonylation of formaldehyde, followed by esterification with methanol. Homogeneous acids and different solid acids (e.g., resins and zeolites) were used as catalysts, and the effect of the solvent was examined.
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Methyl glycolate was synthesized as a precursor to ethylene glycol from the acid-catalyzed carbonylation of formaldehyde, followed by esterification with methanol. Homogeneous acids and different solid acids (e.g., resins and zeolites) were used as catalysts, and the effect of the solvent was examined. Afterward, a carboxylic acid protection strategy was proposed. With sulfolane and acetic acid as the mixed solvent, the solubility of CO increases, and the reaction rate can be accelerated. The rapid reaction between acetic acid and glycolic acid inhibits glycolic acid polymerization and pulls the reaction balance to promote the carbonylation reaction rate. Under the optimal solvent system (a molar ratio of acetic acid to sulfolane of 1:5) and the appropriate reaction conditions, the selectivity of the target product is higher than 85%. Solid acid catalysts with a −SO3H or −CF2SO3H functional group are supposed to be efficient in the carbonylation of formaldehyde, based on which a supported Nafion catalyst with a high surface area and total acid content was designed and synthesized. The novel supported Nafion catalyst presents a high total acid content and high Brönsted–Lewis acid ratio due to the characteristics of modified zeolite and, thus, leads to the high reactivity and very low selectivity of the by-product. A possible reaction mechanism is proposed to explain the product’s distribution by ascribing the formation of different products to different types of acid sites.
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(This article belongs to the Section Catalysis in Organic and Polymer Chemistry)
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First Examples of Reactions of 3-Trimethylsilyl-2-Propynamides and Organic Diselenides: Synthesis of Novel Derivatives of Propynamides
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1326; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101326 - 28 Sep 2023
Abstract
First examples of the reactions of 3-trimethylsilyl-2-propynamides with organic diselenides yielding 3-alkylselanyl-2-propenamides and 3-organylselanyl-2-propynamides were realized. The latter compounds were obtained by the Cu-catalyzed reaction of organic diselenides with 4-propioloylmorpholine. The reaction of 3-trimethylsilyl-2-propynamides with dialkyl diselenides in the system NaBH4/H
[...] Read more.
First examples of the reactions of 3-trimethylsilyl-2-propynamides with organic diselenides yielding 3-alkylselanyl-2-propenamides and 3-organylselanyl-2-propynamides were realized. The latter compounds were obtained by the Cu-catalyzed reaction of organic diselenides with 4-propioloylmorpholine. The reaction of 3-trimethylsilyl-2-propynamides with dialkyl diselenides in the system NaBH4/H2O/K2CO3/THF proceeded in a regio- and stereoselective fashion, affording 3-alkylselanyl-2-propenamides in 90–94% yields. An unsymmetrical divinyl selenide with the cyclic amide groups and a product, containing two selanyl-2-propenamide moieties and three cyclic amide groups, were synthesized. The Cu-catalyzed allylation reaction of 3-trimethylsilyl-2-propynamides was accompanied with desilylation to yield 3-allyl-2-propynamides.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Catalytic Synthesis and Application of Heterocyclic and Heteroatom Compounds)
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S-Scheme Heterojunction Photocatalyst for Photocatalytic H2O2 Production: A Review
by
and
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1325; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101325 - 27 Sep 2023
Abstract
Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a clean and mild oxidant that is receiving increasing attention. The photocatalytic H2O2 production process utilizes solar energy as an energy source and H2O and O2 as material sources,
[...] Read more.
Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a clean and mild oxidant that is receiving increasing attention. The photocatalytic H2O2 production process utilizes solar energy as an energy source and H2O and O2 as material sources, making it a safe and sustainable process. However, the high recombination rate of photogenerated carriers and the low utilization of visible light limit the photocatalytic production of H2O2. S-scheme heterojunctions can significantly reduce the recombination rate of photogenerated electron–hole pairs and retain a high reduction and oxidation capacity due to the presence of an internal electric field. Therefore, it is necessary to develop S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts with simple preparation methods and high performance. After a brief introduction of the basic principles and advantages of photocatalytic H2O2 production and S-scheme heterojunctions, this review focuses on the design and application of S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts in photocatalytic H2O2 production. This paper concludes with a challenge and prospect of the application of S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts in photocatalytic H2O2 production.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of g-C3N4-Based Photocatalysts: Environmental Purification and Energy Conversion)
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Open AccessArticle
Immobilization of the Lipase B from Candida antarctica on Urban Solid Waste
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1324; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101324 - 26 Sep 2023
Abstract
The adsorption of the lipase B from Candida antarctica (CALB) over polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), and derivatives, abundant components of urban solid waste (USW), was investigated. The characterization of the supports and biocatalysts synthesized by SEM-EDS and FTIR is presented. Two immobilization
[...] Read more.
The adsorption of the lipase B from Candida antarctica (CALB) over polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), and derivatives, abundant components of urban solid waste (USW), was investigated. The characterization of the supports and biocatalysts synthesized by SEM-EDS and FTIR is presented. Two immobilization strategies were evaluated, conventional and total adsorption. The adsorbed protein was determined by Bradford and through high-resolution inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES). In this sense, the adsorption of CALB in all the proposed supports was evidenced, obtaining the highest protein loads in bis-(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET). Subsequently, the biocatalysts were applied to the esterification of rac-ibuprofen with ethanol. CALB immobilized in BHET showed remarkable activity, achieving conversions of 30%. In this context, immobilization on this support was optimized, studying the addition of sorbitol-glycerol. Thus, in the presence of 0.91 g of polyols, a catalyst with a protein load of 33.3 mg·g−1 was obtained, achieving productivity of 0.298 mmol min−1 mg−1. Additionally, no differences were found when using BHET from USW bottles of various colors. This research shows the potential of materials derived from PET as enzymatic supports, unreported materials, that we can use as tools to achieve sustainable biotechnological applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heterogeneous Catalysis for Environmentally Compatible Reactions and Processes)
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Open AccessArticle
Simulation of the Catalytic Gasification of Banana Biomass in the Production of Hydrogen, Using Glucose as a Model Compound
by
, , , , and
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1323; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101323 - 25 Sep 2023
Abstract
In the face of the climate change problem caused by fossil fuels, it is essential to seek efficient alternative energies with a lower environmental impact that are derived from renewable resources. Biomass gasification technology continues to generate significant interest in sustainable energy research
[...] Read more.
In the face of the climate change problem caused by fossil fuels, it is essential to seek efficient alternative energies with a lower environmental impact that are derived from renewable resources. Biomass gasification technology continues to generate significant interest in sustainable energy research as an alternative to traditional combustion technology. Gasification involves the thermochemical conversion of raw materials, resulting in a highly valuable gaseous product known as synthesis gas, commonly used as a fuel. Its numerous advantages include the availability of raw materials, the reduction in harmful emission streams, performance, and costs. As this topic gains momentum in the global energy framework, it is imperative to advance the maturity of this technology by addressing its weaknesses, primarily in terms of efficiency. The objective of this project was to investigate the hydrogen production process through the simulation of glucose gasification as a representative compound for biomass. This was achieved by conducting an integrated simulation of glucose gasification, encompassing both the heat transfer in the external system and the conversion of glucose into hydrogen gas, using the results obtained in the external system as initial conditions. Interrelated aspects of this complex process, including heat transfer and the kinetics of the gasification process, were modeled. Glucose was selected as the model compound due to its availability, simplicity, fundamental understanding, reproducibility, comparability, knowledge of reaction pathways, and simplification of mathematical models. The simulation resulted in a H2:CO ratio of 2.2, and molar fluxes were obtained for H2, CO, CO2, CH4, and H2O consistent with those typically observed in the gasification process of organic matter. These models were constructed, laying the foundation for the adaptability of subsequent optimization studies.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biomass Catalysis)
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Development of Non-Spherical Platinum Nanoparticles on Carbon Supports for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1322; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101322 - 25 Sep 2023
Abstract
Proton exchange membrane fuel cells are anticipated to play an important role in decarbonizing the global energy system, but the performance of platinum (Pt) catalysts must be improved to make this technology more economical. Studies have identified non-spherical Pt nanoparticles on carbon supports
[...] Read more.
Proton exchange membrane fuel cells are anticipated to play an important role in decarbonizing the global energy system, but the performance of platinum (Pt) catalysts must be improved to make this technology more economical. Studies have identified non-spherical Pt nanoparticles on carbon supports as promising approaches to address this challenge. However, to realize the full benefits of these strategies, the catalyst synthesis procedures must be successfully simplified and scaled up, and the catalyst must perform well in half and full-cell tests. In this study, a surfactant-free one-pot method is developed to synthesize non-spherical Pt nanoparticles on Ketjen Black carbon, which is either non-treated (Pt/KB), acid-treated (Pt/KB-O), or nitrogen-doped (Pt/KB-N). The catalysts are synthesized in both small and large batches to determine the effect of scaling up the synthesis procedure. The nitrogen-doped carbon support shows a nearly identical morphological structure with uniform distribution of non-spherical Pt nanoparticles for both small and large batches’ synthesis compared with non-treated and acid-treated carbon samples. The comparative oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity shows that the Pt/KB-N prepared in small and large batches has better ORR activity, which is likely caused by uniformly distributed non-spherical Pt nanoparticles on the nitrogen-doped carbon support. All three catalysts show similar ORR durability, testing from 0.5–1.0 V, while Pt/KB-O displays slightly better durability from 1.0–1.5 V for carbon corrosion. These results will help inform the implementation of shape-controlled Pt catalysts on modified carbon supports in large scale.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Noble Metal-Based Nanomaterials for Heterogeneous Catalysis)
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Insights into a Removal Mechanism of Triclosan Using an Electroactivated Persulfate-Coupled Carbon Membrane System
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1321; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101321 - 25 Sep 2023
Abstract
Triclosan (TCS), a broad-spectrum bacteriostatic agent with bactericidal and disinfectant properties, is one of the emerging pollutants of great interest. The electrically activated persulfate-coupled carbon membrane system was studied in this paper. The removal of triclosan achieved 90% within 40 min. Complete degradation
[...] Read more.
Triclosan (TCS), a broad-spectrum bacteriostatic agent with bactericidal and disinfectant properties, is one of the emerging pollutants of great interest. The electrically activated persulfate-coupled carbon membrane system was studied in this paper. The removal of triclosan achieved 90% within 40 min. Complete degradation can be achieved within 90 min. The electrode was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The optimal reaction conditions were explored. The catalytic mechanism of the reaction was investigated. It was proved that hydroxyl radicals, sulfate radicals, and singlet oxygen were the main reactive oxygen species in the reaction process by the free radical quenching experiment and electron paramagnetic resonance spectrometer. The degradation path and mechanism of triclosan were investigated.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Novel Catalysts for Treatment of Pollutants in Wastewater, 2nd Edition)
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PAN/TiO2 Ultrafiltration Membrane for Enhanced BSA Removal and Antifouling Performance
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1320; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101320 - 23 Sep 2023
Abstract
Membrane separation has been widely utilized to eliminate pollutants from wastewater. Among them, a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) ultrafiltration (UF) membrane has presented outstanding stability, and distinguished chemical and thermal properties. However, UF membranes inevitably incur fouling issues during their operation procedure caused by contaminant
[...] Read more.
Membrane separation has been widely utilized to eliminate pollutants from wastewater. Among them, a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) ultrafiltration (UF) membrane has presented outstanding stability, and distinguished chemical and thermal properties. However, UF membranes inevitably incur fouling issues during their operation procedure caused by contaminant adhesion on the membrane surface, which would restrict the operational efficiency and increase the maintenance cost. The conventional physical and chemical cleaning is not an effective technique to reduce the fouling due to the additional chemical addition and inevitable structure damage. Recently, UF membranes combined with photocatalytic materials are suggested to be a useful approach to conquer the membrane fouling issues. Herein, TiO2 nanoparticles were utilized to blend with a PAN casting solution for fabricating a composite UF membrane via a phase inversion method. With a certain TiO2 addition, the obtained membranes presented an enhancement of hydrophilicity, which could promote the water permeability and antifouling performance. The optimized M3 membrane prepared with 15.0 wt% PAN and 0.6 wt% TiO2 exhibited an excellent water permeability up to 207.0 L m−2 h−1 bar−1 with an outstanding 99.0% BSA rejection and superior antifouling property. In addition, the photocatalytic TiO2 nanoparticles endowed the M3 membrane with a remarkable self-cleaning ability under the UV irradiation. This facile construction method offered new insight to enhance the UF membrane separation performance with an enhanced antifouling ability.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral-Based Composite Catalytic Materials)
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Development and Optimization of Air-Electrodes for Rechargeable Zn–Air Batteries
by
, , , and
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1319; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101319 - 23 Sep 2023
Abstract
Rechargeable Zn–air batteries (ZABs) can play a significant role in the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy system due to their high theoretical energy density, high cell voltage, and environmental friendliness. ZAB’s air cathode is the principal determinant in predicting the
[...] Read more.
Rechargeable Zn–air batteries (ZABs) can play a significant role in the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy system due to their high theoretical energy density, high cell voltage, and environmental friendliness. ZAB’s air cathode is the principal determinant in predicting the battery’s overall performance, as it is responsible for catalyzing the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) during the discharging and charging process, respectively. In this work, a detailed optimization study of the architecture of the air cathode was carried out using the benchmark bifunctional oxygen electrocatalyst (Pt/C-RuO2). The air cathode composition and architecture were optimized regarding the choice of the commercial gas diffusion layer (GDL), the effect of hot pressing the catalyst layer (CL), and the optimum pore size of the current collector. The best cathode from this study shows a maximum power density (PDmax) of 167 mW/cm2, with a round trip efficiency and a voltage gap (Egap) of 59.8% and 0.78 V, respectively, indicating the air cathodes preparation approach proposed in this work as a promising strategy for the improvement of the overall performance of ZABs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Electrocatalytic Materials for Polymer Electrolyte Water Electrolyzers and Metal–Air Batteries)
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Immobilization of Phospholipase D for Production of Phosphatidylserine by a Pickering Emulsion Strategy
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1318; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101318 - 23 Sep 2023
Abstract
As a natural phospholipid, phosphatidylserine (PS) plays a key role in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Recently, substantial attention has been focused on the phospholipase D (PLD)-mediated synthesis of PS. However, the application of free PLD is usually limited by high cost,
[...] Read more.
As a natural phospholipid, phosphatidylserine (PS) plays a key role in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Recently, substantial attention has been focused on the phospholipase D (PLD)-mediated synthesis of PS. However, the application of free PLD is usually limited by high cost, poor reusability, and low stability. In this study, PLD from Streptomyces antibiotics (saPLD) was efficiently immobilized on SiO2 through physical adsorption to develop saPLD@SiO2. The stability of the saPLD@SiO2 was higher than that of the free saPLD over an extensive range of temperature and pH conditions. Furthermore, the PS yield of saPLD@SiO2 was approximately 41% in the first cycles, and still kept 60% of its initial PS yield after 14 cycles. After a 25-day storage period, the saPLD@SiO2 retained 62.5% of its initial activity, while the free saPLD retained only 34.3%, suggesting that saPLD@SiO2 has better stability than free saPLD. A Pickering emulsion was produced by dispersing saPLD@SiO2 in solutions (ethyl propanoate and acetate/acetic acid buffer) using ultrasound. The engineered Pickering emulsion demonstrated excellent catalytic activity, with a 62% PS yield after 6 h, while free saPLD had only 18%. The results indicated that a high-performance and sustainable biocatalysis method was established for the effective synthesis of PS.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Trends in Enzyme Immobilization)
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Open AccessCommunication
Nitrogen-Doped Nickel Selenium Nanosheets for Highly Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Catalysts 2023, 13(10), 1317; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13101317 - 22 Sep 2023
Abstract
Transition metal selenides have garnered considerable attention in the field of electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). However, their OER performances still lag behind those of Ir-based materials due to limited exposed active sites, inefficient electron transfer and inadequate stability. In this study, we
[...] Read more.
Transition metal selenides have garnered considerable attention in the field of electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). However, their OER performances still lag behind those of Ir-based materials due to limited exposed active sites, inefficient electron transfer and inadequate stability. In this study, we have successfully synthesized nitrogen-doped NiSe2 nanosheets, which exhibit high efficiency and long-term stability for the OER, requiring only 320 mV to reach a current density of 10 mA cm−2. The nitrogen doping plays a crucial role in effectively regulating the work function and semiconductor characteristics of NiSe2, which facilitates the electron transport and optimizes the catalytic sites. Furthermore, the NiSe2 nanosheets present a larger surface area with more exposed active sites, thus resulting in exceptional OER catalytic activity. The nitrogen-doped NiSe2 nanosheets also display superior stability, maintaining a sustained current density throughout an 8-h OER operation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Two-Dimensional (2D) Materials in Catalysis)
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Total Catalytic Oxidation of Ethanol over MnCoAl Mixed Oxides Derived from Layered Double Hydroxides: Effect of the Metal Ratio and the Synthesis Atmosphere Conditions
by
, , , and
Catalysts 2023, 13(9), 1316; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13091316 - 21 Sep 2023
Abstract
In this work, the LDH approach was used to prepare MnCoAl mixed oxides with various textural and structural frameworks for the purpose of enhancing the total oxidation of ethanol. Our results showed that the catalytic activity of the MnCoAl oxides was influenced by
[...] Read more.
In this work, the LDH approach was used to prepare MnCoAl mixed oxides with various textural and structural frameworks for the purpose of enhancing the total oxidation of ethanol. Our results showed that the catalytic activity of the MnCoAl oxides was influenced by the Mn/Co ratio and the gas atmosphere used during synthesis and thermal treatment. Rietveld refinement was processed to estimate the proportion of phases presented in the prepared materials. Our findings indicated that the generation of Mn2CoO4 spinel and Mn5O8 lamellar phases improved the redox properties and enhanced the active sites in the MnCoAl oxides. Notably, we observed that the catalytic activity at low temperatures of the catalyst increased with the decrease in the cobalt amount. It was also demonstrated that using an N2 atmosphere during the preparation of the materials is a promising route to prevent the formation of undesirable phases in the LDHs and their corresponding oxides. The presence of an O2-free atmosphere during the LDH synthesis positively affects the total ethanol transformation to CO2 over the oxide catalysts.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Layered Double Hydroxide-Based Catalysts for Advanced Chemical Technologies)
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Treatment of Textile Wastewater by a Novel Clay/TiO2/ZnO-Based Catalyst, Applying a Synergic Catalytic Ozonation–Electroflocculation Process
by
, , , , , and
Catalysts 2023, 13(9), 1315; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13091315 - 21 Sep 2023
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the treatment of real textile wastewater using a novel bentonite clay/TiO2/ZnO-based ozonation catalyst. In this study, synergic electroflocculation/catalytic ozonation, catalytic ozonation, and ozonation processes are applied in a modified hybrid reactor. To the authors’ knowledge, this
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This study aims to investigate the treatment of real textile wastewater using a novel bentonite clay/TiO2/ZnO-based ozonation catalyst. In this study, synergic electroflocculation/catalytic ozonation, catalytic ozonation, and ozonation processes are applied in a modified hybrid reactor. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first application of bentonite clay/TiO2/ZnO as an ozonation catalyst for treating real textile wastewater. The four operational variables—ozone dose (0.2–0.8 mg/min), reaction time (0–120 min), DC voltage supply (5–15 V), and catalyst dose (0.5–2 g/L)—were studied for decolorization and for the removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD). The results showed that the combined process (electroflocculation + clay/TiO2/ZnO/O3) had the highest removal efficiencies for COD and color (97.86% and 97.90%, respectively) at optimum parameters of 10 DC volts. an ozone dose of 0.8 mg/min, and a catalyst dose of 2 g/L in textile wastewater. The results further revealed that the initial pH of wastewater plays an essential role in the process’s overall performance. The studied synergic process was efficient for real wastewater treatment under alkaline pH (6–9). Based on empirical work, we established that the synergic process is suitable for effectively treating textile wastewater.
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(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Catalysis)
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Open AccessArticle
Selective Synthesis of a Gasoline Fraction from CO and H2 on a Co-SiO2/ZSM-5/Al2O3 Catalyst
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Catalysts 2023, 13(9), 1314; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13091314 - 21 Sep 2023
Abstract
This article reports on a simple method for producing high-octane gasoline from CO and H2 on a Co-Al2O3/SiO2/HZSM-5/Al2O3 hybrid catalyst. In the selected pressure range (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 MPa), it was found
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This article reports on a simple method for producing high-octane gasoline from CO and H2 on a Co-Al2O3/SiO2/HZSM-5/Al2O3 hybrid catalyst. In the selected pressure range (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 MPa), it was found that a decrease in pressure and an increase in temperature contribute to an increase in the content of branched hydrocarbons. The optimal technological parameters of the process were determined to ensure high selectivity and productivity for C5–C10 hydrocarbons: pressure—1.0 MPa, ratio H2/CO = 2, gas space velocity—1000 h−1, temperature—250 °C. The selectivity for the gasoline fraction is 65.2%, and the ratio of branched to linear hydrocarbons (iso/n index) is 2.3. Under the specified technological conditions, an experimental batch of gasoline fraction (1000 cm3) was produced at the pilot plant during 400 h of continuous operation. The main physicochemical and operational parameters of the experimental gasoline fraction of hydrocarbons have been determined. The octane number determined by the research method according to GOST R 52947-2019 is 78.5 units.
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(This article belongs to the Section Industrial Catalysis)
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Graphene-Based TiO2 Cement Composites to Enhance the Antibacterial Effect of Self-Disinfecting Surfaces
Catalysts 2023, 13(9), 1313; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13091313 - 21 Sep 2023
Abstract
This paper studies the photocatalytic performance of graphene-based titanium dioxide (TiO2) on cementitious composites for the decomposition of Escherichia coli (E. coli) under visible light. Graphene-based TiO2 was first synthesized through a hydrothermal process. The composites were then
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This paper studies the photocatalytic performance of graphene-based titanium dioxide (TiO2) on cementitious composites for the decomposition of Escherichia coli (E. coli) under visible light. Graphene-based TiO2 was first synthesized through a hydrothermal process. The composites were then evaluated in terms of adsorption capability and degradation of methylene blue dyes. The adsorption test shows a remarkable increase in the amount of dye adsorbed into the composite surface. GO-P25 could adsorb around 60% of the initial dye, while less than 10% of the initial dye was adsorbed by pristine TiO2-P25. The synthesized graphene-based TiO2 significantly enhanced the dye degradation activity (94%) compared to pristine P25 (36%) and Krono (52%), even with the longer irradiation time for P25 and Krono. This led to an increase in reaction rate that was almost 20 times that of P25. Considering the good adsorption capabilities and high photodegradation of dye under visible light for GO-P25, cement-based surfaces containing GO-P25 are expected to be improved for the decomposition of Escherichia coli (E. coli) under visible light. Graphene-based TiO2 on a cement-based surface showed high antibacterial activity with a 77% reduction in number of bacteria compared to a cement-based surface containing pristine TiO2. This study confirms the effectiveness of the composites for disinfection of E. coli under visible light.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photocatalytic Building Materials: From Fundamentals to Sustainable Applications)
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