Nanoscale Pd supported on 3D porous carbon for enhanced selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol

In this work, a 3D porous carbon framework (PCF) supporting palladium nanoparticles (Pd/PCF) was synthesized by a simple and economical method and used for catalyzing benzyl alcohol oxidation in a continuous-flow reactor. Structural and surface characterization revealed that this coral-like PCF with increased hydrophobic and basic surface properties promotes the adsorption and desorption of the reactant and products, and also suppresses the disproportionation and facilitates the oxidation of benzyl alcohol at the same time. The Pd/PCF catalyst exhibited an improved performance in activity, selectivity, and stability when compared to the same Pd supported on a typical activated carbon (AC).