Nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes with variable basicity: Preparation and catalytic properties

Nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes with variable basicity have been synthesized by CVD method using Fe-SBA-15 as catalysts. The precursors had notable influence on the basicity of CNx. The highest amount of pyridinic-like nitrogen atom contributed to the basicity was 3.32 mmol g−1 CNx obtained from ethylene diamine. CNx prefer protic alcohols, such as ethanol and methanol, over aprotic solvents, such as acetonitrile and acetone. CNx with high N content showed effective aldehyde conversion with 100% selectivity. The CNx catalyst can be reused at least four times without significant loss of catalytic activity.

► CNx with variable basicity were prepared successfully by CVD method. ► CNx prefer protic alcohols over aprotic solvents. ► CNx showed effective aldehyde conversion with 100% selectivity. ► The catalyst can be reused at least four times without loss of catalytic activity.