The mutual promotional effect of Au–Pd/CeO2 bimetallic catalysts on destruction of toluene

Bimetallic Au–Pd nanoparticles were deposited on CeO2 and used in the destruction of toluene, which exhibited the mutual promotional effect compared with Au/CeO2 and Pd/CeO2 catalysts. This is due to the synergistic effect between Au and Pd. The addition of suitable amount of gold to Pd/CeO2 increased the proportion of metallic palladium and the catalytic activity.

► Au–Pd nanoparticles were formed on CeO2 support. ► Pd/CeO2 was more active than Au/CeO2 for destruction of toluene. ► Au–Pd bimetallic catalysts were more active than Au and Pd monometallic catalysts due to the synergetic effect between Au and Pd nanocluster.