N2O decomposition by mesoporous silica supported Rh catalysts

► Higher catalytic activity for N2O decomposition of Rh(1 wt %)/SBA-15-Spherical. ► A positive effect of the larger pore size of SBA-15-S in the Rh/SBA-15-S catalyst. ► Higher Rh dispersion and more formation of Rh+1 than Rh0 or Rh+3 on the SBA-15-S. ► Long-term stability of Rh/SBA-15-S at 430 °C for 20 h at specific conditions.