Tuning the structure and catalytic activity of Ru nanoparticle catalysts by single 3d transition-metal atoms in Ru12–metalloporphyrin precursors

Ru nanoparticle catalysts were prepared from Ru12–metalloporphyrin complex precursors containing 3d transition-metal atoms attached to SiO2 surfaces. The single 3d metal atoms at the central position of the Ru12–metalloporphyrin complex precursors exerted a significant influence on the structures and hydrogenation performance of the Ru nanoparticles on the SiO2 surfaces. The Ru12–Cu–porphyrin complex afforded positively charged Ru nanoparticles, which would provide high activity toward aromatic hydrogenation.