Performance of Ce0.25Zr0.75O2 promoted Pd/Ag/γ-Al2O3 catalysts for low-temperature methanol oxidation

► Ce0.25Zr0.75O2 modified Pd/Ag/γ-Al2O3 catalysts towards methanol oxidation were examined. ► The markedly enhanced activity attaining the light-off temperature near 85 °C was achieved. ► Ce0.25Zr0.75O2 favors more active sites: metallic Ag clusters and high oxidation Pd. ► The promotion is due to the co-effects of texture properties and characteristic properties.