Redox-induced controllable engineering of MnO2-Mn x Co3-x O4 interface to boost catalytic oxidation of ethane

Abstract

Abstract Multicomponent oxides are intriguing materials in heterogeneous catalysis, and the interface between various components often plays an essential role in oxidations. However, the underlying principles of how the hetero-interface affects the catalytic process remain largely unexplored. Here we report a unique structure design of MnCoO x catalysts by chemical reduction, specifically for ethane oxidation. Part of the Mn ions incorporates with Co oxides to form spinel Mn x Co3-x O4, while the rests stay as MnO2 domains to create the MnO2-Mn x Co3-x O4 interface. MnCoO x with Mn/Co ratio of 0.5 exhibits an excellent activity and stability up to 1000 h under humid conditions. The synergistic effects between MnO2 and Mn x Co3-x O4 are elucidated, in which the C2H6 tends to be adsorbed on the interfacial Co sites and subsequently break the C-H bonds on the reactive lattice O of MnO2 layer. Findings from this study provide valuable insights for the rational design of efficient catalysts for alkane combustion.