Facile, surfactant-free synthesis of Pd nanoparticles for heterogeneous catalysts

A simple route to a highly active and selective Pd/C heterogeneous hydrogenation catalyst has been developed. The 1.5 nm Pd0 nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized at room temperature from the reduction of palladium acetate in methanol under anhydrous conditions. A powdered carbon support was added during the synthesis and dried to produce an active catalyst that did not require any additional treatment. This technique alleviates many of the difficulties reported in using colloidal NPs, such as residues left from the removal of capping agents or agglomeration during ligand removal.

A simple route is described for the preparation of Pd nanoparticles via reduction of Pd(OAC)2 by methanol at room temperature, without the need for any capping agents. These catalysts do not require pretreatment and exhibit high selectivity for the hydrogenation of acetylene to ethylene.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (138 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Synthesis of Pd nanoparticles without capping agents.
► Surfactant-free synthesis ensures that Pd is active as-prepared.
► Facile RT reduction by alcohols represents an advance in nanoparticle synthesis.
► Pd deposited on carbon shows high selectivity for acetylene hydrogenation.