Al-modified Mesoporous SiO₂-matrix-supported Uniform CeO₂ Nanodots with Superior Catalytic Efficiency in DCE Combustion

Adjusting the acidity and/or oxygen species on the surface of metal oxide nanostructures could fabricate the high active and durable catalysts for the combustion of chlorinated volatile organic compounds (CVOCs). Herein, Al-modified mesoporous SiO₂ matrix supported uniform CeO₂ nanodots (CeO₂@xAlSiO₂) was synthesized and evaluated in dichloroethane (DCE) catalytic combustion. From the systematic study of the texture structure, surface properties, and catalytic activity, we deduced that the improved surface acidity and oxygen species activity enhanced the DCE conversion and reduced the formation of chlorinated organic byproduct, while increasing the formation of the desired product, HCl. The optimized CeO₂@0.5AlSiO₂ sample showed superior activity (90 % conversion of DCE at 260 °C), excellent durability (at 280 °C for 60 h) and good tolerance towards moisture (in 1 % and 3 % moisture for 10 h, respectively). Our work identified the important role of surface acidity and oxygen species over these functionalized catalysts, providing guidance for the advanced catalyst design.