Total oxidation of toluene over Pt–MCM-41 synthesized in a one-step process

Pt–MCM-41 materials were synthesized by a simple method via simultaneous self-assembling and Pt incorporation, using cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC) as a structure directing agent. Sample characterization was performed by N2 sorption, XRD, TEM and high-resolution TEM (HRTEM) measurements. The highly ordered structure of MCM-41 was not appreciably affected by the formation of the Pt particles well dispersed in the MCM-41 as cubic nano-crystallite of ca. 10 nm. The Pt–MCM-41 sample was tested as a highly active catalyst towards complete oxidation of toluene. High surface area, well dispersed Pt, and appropriate Pt crystallite size may answer for the excellent catalytic performance.