Complete Benzene Oxidation over Mono and Bimetallic Pd—Au Catalysts on Alumina-Supported Y-Doped Ceria

The protection of environment and human health stimulates intensive research for abatement of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the atmosphere. Complete catalytic oxidation is an efficient, environmentally friendly and economically feasible method for elimination of VOCs. This study aims to design high performing and cost-effective catalytic formulations by exploration of appropriate and economically viable supports. Alumina-supported ceria (30 wt.%) and Y2O3 (1 wt.%)-doped ceria were prepared by mechanical mixing and were used as support of mono Au (2 wt.%) and Pd (1 wt.%) and bimetallic Pd-Au catalysts. The characterization by textural measurements, X-ray powder diffraction (PXRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), EPR (electron paramagnetic resonance) and temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) was carried out in order to clarify the relationship between catalyst composition, textural, structural and surface properties, reducibility and catalytic performance for complete benzene oxidation. Among all studied catalysts, Pd-based catalysts exhibited the best combustion activity. In particular, monometallic Pd on alumina supported Y-doped ceria attained 100% of complete benzene conversion at 180 °C. These catalytic materials have potential to meet stringent emission regulations in an economical and effective way.