CeO2 decorated Au/CNT catalyst with constructed Au-CeO2 interfaces for benzyl alcohol oxidation

Although supported gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) display exceeding performances, challenges exist for carbon supported small and stable AuNPs used for liquid-phase oxidation. Au/CNT decorated by ceria has been designed for oxidation of benzyl alcohol. CeO2 decoration directly led to the formation of active oxygen species and surface defects. Supplementary lattice oxygen in CeO2, rather than the oxygenated groups on CNT, accounted for the storage/release ability of oxygen. Interfaces and synergy between Au-CeO2 were constructed with appropriate CeO2 crystallization, revealed as promoted electron transfer and surface property. 77.9% yield of benzaldehyde was reached (40 °C) after ceria decoration with enhanced stability. [Display omitted] •Well-crystalized CeO2 on CNT facilitated the formation of Au-CeO2 interfaces.•Lattice O in CeO2 instead of O groups on CNT takes a leading role to supplement O.•Stability of supported Au on CNT are greatly enhanced with CeO2 doping.•77.9% benzyl alcohol can be transformed into benzaldehyde at 40 °C for 3 h.