Ammonia synthesis over ruthenium catalyst supported on perovskite type BaTiO3

Ammonia synthesis reaction was performed over a novel ruthenium catalyst supported on perovskite-type BaTiO3. It was quite worth noting that Ru/BaTiO3 catalyst exhibited outstanding activity for ammonia synthesis. The results of XRD, CO2-TPD, H2-TPR and TEM indicated that the strong metal–support interaction (SMSI) between a partially reduced support and Ru combined with strong basicity of support was responsible for such high catalytic activity. The electrons could be easily transferred from the support to the surface of Ru particles by the SMSI effect facilitated the cleavage of NN and greatly enhanced the activity for ammonia synthesis.

Ru/BaTiO3 was an excellent catalyst for ammonia synthesis, which was attributed to large number of basic sites and strong interaction between Ru and reduced BaTiO3 support (SMSI). The SMSI effect can make the electron transfer from the basic support to Ru surface more easily. This process would promote the cleavage of NN triple bond significantly.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► It was the first time to prepare the Ru/BaTiO3 with high activity for NH3 synthesis.
► BaTiO3 supported Ru catalyst exhibits SMSI properties after treatment in H2 atmosphere.
► The SMSI can make the electron transfer from the basic support to Ru surface more easily.