Study of CuO–CeO2 catalysts supported on ordered porous silica with different mesostructure and morphology. Influence on CO preferential oxidation

In the present work, SBA-15 and SBA-16 ordered mesoporous silicas were synthesized with different morphologies such as fibers, spheres, rods and irregular shapes. Copper and cerium oxides active phase was introduced by two methods, incipient wetness impregnation and solid-state impregnation by using a ball mill. The obtained catalysts were evaluated in the CO preferential oxidation reaction (COPrOx). By means of SAXS, XRD, SEM and TEM microscopies, the mesostructures and morphologies were characterized, as well as the preservation of the porous structure and the presence of oxides nanoparticles. In addition, XPS spectroscopy was used to analyze the chemical state and relative surface abundance of the elements present in the catalysts. From the catalytic results, it could be seen that the incipient wetness impregnation method was the most favorable. The unidirectional porous structure SBA-15 with fiber shape and incipient wetness impregnation achieved the highest conversion of CO and selectivity to CO2 (CO conversion 98% at 175 °C). SBA-16 based catalysts were found less active. However, it is noteworthy that the best material was prepared by using an irregular shaped SBA-16 impregnated by incipient wetness procedure. This catalyst exhibited a maximum CO conversion of 80% at 175 °C. Finally, the SBA-15 mesoporous structure and the incipient wetness impregnation method had a greater influence on the better catalytic performance. [Display omitted] •SBA-15 and SBA-16 with different morphologies, fibers, rods and spheres.•CuO–CeO2 were incorporated by incipient wetness impregnation and ball milling.•COPrOx reaction was benefited by incipient wetness impregnation.•The best catalysts showed reduced copper species and Cu/Ce = 0.55 M ratio.•Cylindrical pores of SBA-15 favor the interaction gaseous reagents - active phase.