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Environmentally Friendly Catalysis for Green Future
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Environmentally Friendly Catalysis for Green Future

A special issue of Catalysts (ISSN 2073-4344). This special issue belongs to the section "Environmental Catalysis".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 10 January 2026 | Viewed by 4559

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Zuzeng Qin

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi Colleges and Universities Key Laboratory of New Chemical Application Technology in Resources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
Interests: environmentally friendly catalytic processes; 2D materials; synthesis and separation of fine chemicals; photocatalysis; thermocatalysis; CO2 conversion; H2 production; heterogeneous catalysis
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Over the past few decades, the advancement of human society and industrialization has led to severe environmental issues, such as air and water pollution, the greenhouse effect, and climate change. Environmentally Friendly Catalysis is crucial in addressing the acute environmental challenges we currently confront. The catalytic conversion of CO2, VOC, NOx, SOx, and other gaseous pollutants is an effective approach to coping with the greenhouse effect and climate change, encompassing thermal catalysis, electrocatalysis, and photocatalysis. Moreover, the catalytic degradation and reduction in organic pollutants and heavy metal ions in water represent advanced technologies that have drawn considerable attention in wastewater treatment.

The Special Issue "Environmentally Friendly Catalysis for Green Future" explores the most recent progress and innovations in catalysis that contribute to environmental sustainability. It is a platform for researchers, scientists, and engineers to present their discoveries regarding catalysts and catalytic processes that promote environmental improvement and energy conversion.

The content of this Special Issue encompasses:

  • The design, construction, and development of novel environmentally friendly catalysts.
  • The application of environmentally friendly catalysis in diverse fields.
  • The summary and discussion of advanced pollution reduction technologies.
  • Thermal catalysis, photocatalysis, and electrocatalysis for environmental governance and energy conversion.

We cordially invite you to submit original research articles, review papers, and short communications contributing to the comprehension and advancement of environmentally friendly catalysis. Together, we can forge a greener and more sustainable future.

Prof. Dr. Zuzeng Qin
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Catalysts is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • environmentally friendly catalysis
  • thermal catalysis
  • photocatalysis
  • electrocatalysis
  • CO2 reduction
  • degradation
  • environmental remediation
  • green chemistry

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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22 pages, 7389 KiB  
Article
FeCo-LDH/CF Cathode-Based Electrocatalysts Applied to a Flow-Through Electro-Fenton System: Iron Cycling and Radical Transformation
by Heng Dong, Yuying Qi, Zhenghao Yan, Yimeng Feng, Wenqi Song, Fengxiang Li and Tao Hua
Catalysts 2025, 15(7), 685; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15070685 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 333
Abstract
In this investigation, a hierarchical FeCo-layered double hydroxide (FeCo-LDH) electrochemical membrane material was prepared by a simple in situ hydrothermal method. The prepared material formed a 3D honeycomb-structured FeCo-LDH-modified carbon felt (FeCo-LDH/CF) catalytic layer with uniform open pores on a CF substrate with [...] Read more.
In this investigation, a hierarchical FeCo-layered double hydroxide (FeCo-LDH) electrochemical membrane material was prepared by a simple in situ hydrothermal method. The prepared material formed a 3D honeycomb-structured FeCo-LDH-modified carbon felt (FeCo-LDH/CF) catalytic layer with uniform open pores on a CF substrate with excellent catalytic activity and was served as the cathode in a flow-through electro-Fenton (FTEF) reactor. The electrocatalyst demonstrated excellent treatment performance (99%) in phenol simulated wastewater (30 mg L−1) under the optimized operating conditions (applied voltage = 3.5 V, pH = 6, influent flow rate = 15 mL min−1) of the FTEF system. The high removal rate could be attributed to (i) the excellent electrocatalytic oxidation performance and low interfacial charge transfer resistance of the FeCo-LDH/CF electrode as the cathode, (ii) the ability of the synthesized FeCo-LDH to effectively promote the conversion of H2O2 to •OH under certain conditions, and (iii) the flow-through system improving the mass transfer efficiency. In addition, the degradation process of pollutants within the FTEF system was additionally illustrated by the •OH dominant ROS pathway based on free radical burst experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance tests. This study may provide new insights to explore reaction mechanisms in FTEF systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmentally Friendly Catalysis for Green Future)
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20 pages, 4894 KiB  
Article
Ag-Cu Synergism-Driven Oxygen Structure Modulation Promotes Low-Temperature NOx and CO Abatement
by Ruoxin Li, Jiuhong Wei, Bin Jia, Jun Liu, Xiaoqing Liu, Ying Wang, Yuqiong Zhao, Guoqiang Li and Guojie Zhang
Catalysts 2025, 15(7), 674; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15070674 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 360
Abstract
The efficient simultaneous removal of NOx and CO from sintering flue gas under low-temperature conditions (110–180 °C) in iron and steel enterprises remains a significant challenge in the field of environmental catalysis. In this study, we present an innovative strategy to enhance [...] Read more.
The efficient simultaneous removal of NOx and CO from sintering flue gas under low-temperature conditions (110–180 °C) in iron and steel enterprises remains a significant challenge in the field of environmental catalysis. In this study, we present an innovative strategy to enhance the performance of CuSmTi catalysts through silver modification, yielding a bifunctional system capable of oxygen structure regulation and demonstrating superior activity for the combined NH3-SCR and CO oxidation reactions under low-temperature, oxygen-rich conditions. The modified AgCuSmTi catalyst achieves complete NO conversion at 150 °C, representing a 50 °C reduction compared to the unmodified CuSmTi catalyst (T100% = 200 °C). Moreover, the catalyst exhibits over 90% N2 selectivity across a broad temperature range of 150–300 °C, while achieving full CO oxidation at 175 °C. A series of characterization techniques, including XRD, Raman spectroscopy, N2 adsorption, XPS, and O2-TPD, were employed to elucidate the Ag-Cu interaction. These modifications effectively optimize the surface physical structure, modulate the distribution of acid sites, increase the proportion of Lewis acid sites, and enhance the activity of lattice oxygen species. As a result, they effectively promote the adsorption and activation of reactants, as well as electron transfer between active species, thereby significantly enhancing the low-temperature performance of the catalyst. Furthermore, in situ DRIFTS investigations reveal the reaction mechanisms involved in NH3-SCR and CO oxidation over the Ag-modified CuSmTi catalyst. The NH3-SCR process predominantly follows the L-H mechanism, with partial contribution from the E-R mechanism, whereas CO oxidation proceeds via the MvK mechanism. This work demonstrates that Ag modification is an effective approach for enhancing the low-temperature performance of CuSmTi-based catalysts, offering a promising technical solution for the simultaneous control of NOx and CO emissions in industrial flue gases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmentally Friendly Catalysis for Green Future)
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16 pages, 3834 KiB  
Article
Green Synthesis of TiO2-CeO2 Nanocomposites Using Plant Extracts for Efficient Organic Dye Photodegradation
by Dinh Quang Ho, Van Duy Lai, Quynh Anh Nguyen, D. Duc Nguyen and Duong Duc La
Catalysts 2025, 15(6), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15060583 - 12 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1075
Abstract
The growing presence of hazardous organic pollutants in wastewater poses severe environmental and health risks, necessitating sustainable and efficient treatment solutions. Traditional remediation methods have limitations, highlighting the need for innovative approaches. A green synthesis method was developed to produce TiO2-CeO [...] Read more.
The growing presence of hazardous organic pollutants in wastewater poses severe environmental and health risks, necessitating sustainable and efficient treatment solutions. Traditional remediation methods have limitations, highlighting the need for innovative approaches. A green synthesis method was developed to produce TiO2-CeO2 nanocomposites using Cleistocalyx operculatus leaf extract. The photocatalytic efficiency of the synthesized nanocomposites was evaluated under simulated sunlight by degrading Methylene Blue (MB) dye. Various compositions were tested to determine the optimal performance. The 0.1% TiO2-CeO2 nanocomposite achieved the highest degradation efficiency (95.06% in 150 min) with a reaction rate constant (k) of 18.5 × 10−2 min−1, outperforming commercial TiO2 (P25, 74.85%, k ≈ 3.7 × 10−2 min−1). Additionally, the material maintained excellent stability over eight consecutive cycles with only a slight decrease in efficiency from 95.85% to 93.28%. The enhanced photocatalytic activity is attributed to the synergistic effects of CeO2 incorporation, which enhances charge separation, extends visible light absorption, and promotes reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. These findings highlight the potential of green-synthesized TiO2-CeO2 nanocomposites as a cost-effective and sustainable solution for wastewater treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmentally Friendly Catalysis for Green Future)
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17 pages, 2434 KiB  
Article
Efficient Degradation of Tetracycline via Cobalt Phosphonate-Activated Peroxymonosulfate: Mechanistic Insights and Catalytic Optimization
by Xinlin Huang, Wenting Sun, Rong Bai, Yuchen He, Jingdan Li, Yuwei Pan, Ming Zhang and Guangyu Wu
Catalysts 2025, 15(6), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15060580 - 10 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1147
Abstract
The persistent contamination of aquatic systems by antibiotics, particularly tetracycline (TC), which induces antibiotic resistance genes and chronic toxicity to aquatic organisms, necessitates advanced oxidation processes. Herein, cobalt phosphonate (CoP) nanosheets with tailored Co/P ratios were synthesized to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for TC [...] Read more.
The persistent contamination of aquatic systems by antibiotics, particularly tetracycline (TC), which induces antibiotic resistance genes and chronic toxicity to aquatic organisms, necessitates advanced oxidation processes. Herein, cobalt phosphonate (CoP) nanosheets with tailored Co/P ratios were synthesized to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for TC degradation under visible light. Through a controlled-variable approach, the reaction parameters were systematically optimized. The refined CoP-3 system achieved 90.7% TC removal within 6 min, with the optimal degradation parameters determined as 0.1 g/L CoP-3 and 0.2 g/L PMS. Based on liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, three degradation pathways were inferred. The toxicity of TC and its intermediates was assessed using quantitative structure–activity relationships (QSARs) via the Toxicity Estimation Software Tool (T.E.S.T). The results demonstrated reduced acute toxicity in intermediates compared to the parent compound. In practical applications, the catalyst achieved 64.7% and 80.8% TC removal rates in livestock wastewater and river water, respectively, while maintaining stable activity over four cycles. This demonstrates significant potential for engineering applications. The results were verified by free radical quenching experiments and were attributed to enhanced charge separation and an h+-dominated non-free radical pathway. This work provides a sustainable strategy for antibiotic remediation based on transition metal phosphonates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmentally Friendly Catalysis for Green Future)
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Review

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21 pages, 2687 KiB  
Review
Non-Noble Metal Catalysts for Efficient Formaldehyde Removal at Room Temperature
by Yiqing Feng and Rui Wang
Catalysts 2025, 15(8), 723; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15080723 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 299
Abstract
This review examines the research progress on non-noble-metal-based catalysts for formaldehyde (HCHO) oxidation at room temperature. It begins with an introduction to the hazards of HCHO as an indoor pollutant and the urgency of its removal, comparing several HCHO removal technologies and highlighting [...] Read more.
This review examines the research progress on non-noble-metal-based catalysts for formaldehyde (HCHO) oxidation at room temperature. It begins with an introduction to the hazards of HCHO as an indoor pollutant and the urgency of its removal, comparing several HCHO removal technologies and highlighting the advantages of room-temperature catalytic oxidation. It delves into the classification, preparation methods, and regulation strategies for non-precious metal catalysts, with a focus on manganese-based, cobalt-based, and other transition metal-based catalysts. The effects of catalyst preparation methods, morphological structure, and specific surface area on catalytic performance are discussed, and the catalytic oxidation mechanisms of HCHO, including the Eley–Rideal, Langmuir–Hinshelwood, and Mars–van Krevelen mechanisms, are analyzed. Finally, the challenges faced by non-precious metal catalysts are summarized, such as issues related to the powder form of catalysts in practical applications, lower catalytic activity at room temperature, and insufficient research in the presence of multiple VOC molecules. Suggestions for future research directions are also provided. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmentally Friendly Catalysis for Green Future)
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32 pages, 5470 KiB  
Review
Progress and Reaction Mechanism of Co-Based Catalysts in the Selective Hydrogenation of α,β-Unsaturated Aldehydes
by Haixiang Shi, Jianming Xu, Xuan Luo and Zuzeng Qin
Catalysts 2025, 15(7), 689; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15070689 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 380
Abstract
In recent years, Co-based catalysts have attracted considerable attention in research on selective hydrogenation reactions because of their mild activities and favorable selectivities for producing intermediate products, especially in the selective hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated aldehydes (UAL). However, the low activity of Co-based catalysts [...] Read more.
In recent years, Co-based catalysts have attracted considerable attention in research on selective hydrogenation reactions because of their mild activities and favorable selectivities for producing intermediate products, especially in the selective hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated aldehydes (UAL). However, the low activity of Co-based catalysts for activating hydrogen limits their application in industry, and the diversity of forms and electronic states of Co-based catalysts also leads to the development of complex products and hydrogenation mechanisms at Co active sites. This review provides a comprehensive and systematic overview of recent progress in the selective hydrogenation of UAL over Co-based catalysts, where the preparation methods, hydrogenation properties, and UAL hydrogenation mechanisms of Co-based catalysts are carefully discussed. The influences of nanosize effects, electronic effects, and coordination effects on Co metal and Co oxides are investigated. In addition, the different reaction mechanisms at Co active sites are compared, and their strengths and weaknesses for C=O hydrogenation are further proposed. Finally, the outlook and challenges for the future development of Co-based hydrogenation catalysts are highlighted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmentally Friendly Catalysis for Green Future)
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22 pages, 6102 KiB  
Review
Current Developments in Ozone Catalyst Preparation Techniques and Their Catalytic Oxidation Performance
by Jiajia Gao, Siqi Chen, Yun Gao, Wenquan Sun, Jun Zhou, Kinjal J. Shah and Yongjun Sun
Catalysts 2025, 15(7), 671; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15070671 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 396
Abstract
Through the use of heterogeneous catalysts, catalytic ozone oxidation technology, an effective and eco-friendly advanced oxidation process (AOP), facilitates the breakdown of ozone into reactive oxygen species (like ·OH) and greatly increases the mineralization efficiency of pollutants. This study examines the development of [...] Read more.
Through the use of heterogeneous catalysts, catalytic ozone oxidation technology, an effective and eco-friendly advanced oxidation process (AOP), facilitates the breakdown of ozone into reactive oxygen species (like ·OH) and greatly increases the mineralization efficiency of pollutants. This study examines the development of heterogeneous ozone catalysts through a critical evaluation of the five primary preparation techniques: ion exchange, sol–gel, coprecipitation, impregnation, and hydrothermal synthesis. Each preparation method’s inherent qualities, benefits, drawbacks, and performance variations are methodically investigated, with an emphasis on how they affect the breakdown of different resistant organic compounds. Even though heterogeneous catalysts are more stable and reusable than homogeneous catalysts, they continue to face issues like active component leaching, restricted mass transfer, and ambiguous mechanisms. In order to determine the key paths for catalyst selection in catalytic ozone treatment going forward, the main goal of this review is to provide an overview of the accomplishments in the field of the heterogeneous ozone catalyst treatment of wastewater that is difficult to degrade. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmentally Friendly Catalysis for Green Future)
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