Influence of synthesis parameters on the performance of CeO2–CuO and CeO2–ZrO2–CuO systems in the catalytic oxidation of CO in excess of hydrogen

Ce–Cu and Ce–Zr–Cu oxide systems with a flower-like morphology were prepared by slow co-precipitation in the absence of any structure directing agent. For the sake of comparison, Ce–Cu and Ce–Zr–Cu oxide samples were also prepared by a classic co-precipitation method. All the samples were calcined in air flow at 650 °C. The materials were characterized by SEM and TEM microscopy, quantitative X-ray diffraction, N2 physisorption, H2-TPR, O2-TPD and XPS. The catalytic activity of the prepared samples was evaluated in the preferential oxidation of CO in excess of H2 (CO-PROX), in the 40–190 °C temperature range.

Graphical abstractTEM images of the sample FCZCu, a Ce–Zr–Cu oxide system with flower like morphology, prepared by slow co-precipitation in the absence of any structure directing agent.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Nanostructured Ce/Cu and Ce/Zr/Cu oxide systems were prepared. ► The effect of the different morphology and of the role of Zr doping on the active species was evaluated. ► The CO-PROX catalytic activity was correlated with the structural characteristics.