Effect of Electron Structure of La-Based Perovskites on the Catalytic Combustion of n-Butylamine

Studying the relationship between electronic structure and activity helps to understand the catalytic mechanism since the catalytic combustion is a redox reaction dominated by electron transfer. Herein, we regulated the electron energy and O p-band center of La-based perovskite catalysts by a facile method of changing the B-site ion (B = Co, Mn, Fe). The crystal structure, morphology, reducibility, element valence distribution, and catalytic properties of prepared catalysts were characterized. Combining with DFT calculation, it was found that the low electron energy in (110) facets of LaCoO₃/SiO₂ catalyst contributes to the formation of reactive oxygen species and high-valence Co³⁺ ions. The highest oxygen adsorption activation capacity of LaCoO₃/SiO₂ originates from a moderate location of the O p-band center with respect to the Fermi level. As expected, the LaCoO₃/SiO₂ sample shows higher n-butylamine oxidation activity than that of LaMnO₃/SiO₂ and LaFeO₃/SiO₂. This work provides different insights into understanding the activity of La-based perovskite catalysts for oxidation reactions. Graphical Abstract: (Figure presented.)