Bimetallic Au-Pd catalysts for selective hydrogenation of butadiene: Influence of the preparation method on catalytic properties

► Small AuPd metal particles (5 nm) obtained by three preparation methods. ► High activity in selective hydrogenation of butadiene in excess of alkene. ► Only Pd monomers and dimers on particle surface according to DRIFTS-CO. ► High selectivity related to the absence of Pd dimers. ► Positive effect of phosphorus on the activity.