Halloysite-nanotubes supported FeNi alloy nanoparticles for catalytic decomposition of toxic phosphine gas into yellow phosphorus and hydrogen

The FeNi alloy nanoparticles (FeNi and BFeNi) supported on natural halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were prepared for catalytic decomposition of toxic phosphine (PH3) to yellow phosphorus and hydrogen. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, inductively coupled plasma, scanning electron microscope, and hydrogen temperature-programmed reduction tests were carried out to characterize the physicochemical properties of HNTs and the prepared nano-catalysts. Nearly 100% PH3 was decomposed into yellow phosphorus and hydrogen at 420 °C with prepared FeNi/HNTs catalysts. Metallic Ni and Fe3O4 could be the catalytic active sites in FeNi/HNTs for PH3 decomposition under the low temperature. The boron (B) additives decrease the catalytic activity of FeNi/HNTs for PH3 decomposition due to the formation of the spinal NiFe2O4 and Fe2B which replace the active Fe3O4 and metallic Ni in catalysts. The developed FeNi/HNTs are low-cost and effective catalysts for air-pollution control and recycle of the hazardous waste PH3 gas in industry.

► A low-cost and effective catalysts FeNi/HNTs was prepared.
► The catalysts were characterized by FTIR, XRD, SEM, and H2-TPR.
► Nearly 100% PH3 was decomposed at 420 °C with FeNi/HNTs catalysts.
► The B additives decrease the activity of FeNi/HNTs for PH3 decomposition.
► The mechanism of PH3 decomposition over FeNi/HNTs was proposed.