Total oxidation of selected mono-carbon VOCs over hydrotalcite originated metal oxide catalysts

Hydrotalcite originated Cu–Mg–Al, Co–Mg–Al and Cu–Co–Mg–Al oxide systems were tested as catalysts for the total oxidation of mono-carbon VOCs (methane, methanol, and formic acid). Both calcination temperature of the hydrotalcite precursors as well as doping of the catalysts with potassium promoter influenced their catalytic activity. Increased calcination temperature, which resulted in a decrease of the surface area of the samples and formation of the spinel phases, activated the Co–Mg–Al catalyst, while the opposite effect was observed for the Cu–Mg–Al and Cu–Co–Mg–Al catalysts. On the other hand doping of the catalysts with potassium promoter significantly activated the Cu–Mg–Al and Cu–Co–Mg–Al catalysts in the processes of methanol and formic acid conversion, while only slightly influenced the catalytic performance of the Co–Mg–Al sample.

► Hydrotalcite originated oxide catalysts were used for incineration of monocarbon VOCs.
► Increased calcination temperature activated Co–Mg–Al catalysts.
► Activation effect of potassium doping was found for copper containing catalysts.