MnxCo3 − xO4 solid solution as high-efficient catalysts for low-temperature oxidation of formaldehyde

MnxCo3 − xO4 solid solution was synthesized by co-precipitation method and tested for the first time for oxidation of HCHO. The formation of MnxCo3 − xO4 solid solution was confirmed by XRD, H2-TPR, XPS studies. It was observed that complete conversion of HCHO occurred at 75 °C (GHSV = 60,000 h− 1, relative humidity = 50% (25 °C)), and remained unchanged within 50 h. Such high activity can be ascribed to the large amount of surface oxygen available on MnxCo3 − xO4. According to the results of in situ DRIFTs, we proposed a reaction pathway for HCHO oxidation over MnxCo3 − xO4 catalyst.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► MnxCo3 − xO4 solid solution is active for low-temperature oxidation of HCHO. ► Complete conversion of HCHO over MnxCo3 − xO4 solid solution occurred at 75 °C. ► Rate limiting step is decomposition of surface formates and hydrocarbonates.