Dataset for C-O bond activation using ultra-low loading noble metal catalysts on moderately reducible oxides
Description
Selective C-O activation of complex multifunctional molecules is an essential step for many important chemical processes. Although reducible metal oxides are active and selective towards reductive C-O bond scission via the reverse Mars-van Krevelen mechanism, the most active oxides undergo bulk reduction during reaction. Here, we report a strategy for C-O bonds activation by surface doping moderately reducible oxides with ultra-low loading of noble metals. We demonstrate the principle using highly dispersed Pt anchored onto TiO2 for furfuryl alcohol conversion to methyl furan. A combination of density functional theory calculations, catalyst characterization (STEM, EPR, FTIR and XAS), kinetic experiments, and microkinetic modelling expose significant C-O activation rate enhancement, without either bulk catalyst reduction or unselective ring hydrogenation. A methodology is introduced to quantify various types of sites, revealing that the cationic redox Pt on TiO2 surface is more active than metallic sites for C-O bond activation.