VOC decomposition over a wide range of temperatures using thermally stable Cr6 + sites in a porous silica matrix

Highlight•Cr6 + sites were generated predominantly in 1.2 nm pore size of silica.•Cr6 + species were applied to VOCs decomposition.•We used the Cr6 + species as a recyclable oxidizer and catalyst.•VOC decomposition at a lower reaction temperature was achieved.

Cr species were inserted into porous silica matrices having a pore size of 0.7, 1.2, 2.4 (2.5) or 3.0 nm by an impregnation method using a high-concentration precursor. Cr6 + sites were found to be predominantly generated in a silica matrix with 1.2 nm diameter pores. The Cr6 + sites were applied as a recyclable oxidizer and catalyst for the decomposition of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) over a wide range of reaction temperatures starting from ambient, due to their strong oxidizing ability. The Cr6 + sites could be repeatedly regenerated by heating above 350 °C.

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