A new route for the fabrication of SBA-15 supported Co3O4 and its catalytic application in the epoxidation of styrene

Abstract

Cobalt isonicotinate tetrahydrate has been explored as the molecular precursor for the fabrication of both the bare and SBA-15 supported Co3O4. This method appears to be effective in minimizing the formation of oxide particles outside the mesopore volumes of SBA-15. Microstructural properties of the synthesized materials have been investigated by the PXRD, SEM, TEM, H2-TPR, N2-Physisorption, and DR. UV–Visible and Raman spectroscopic techniques. The SBA-15 supported nanocomposite has shown excellent catalytic activity giving 95% conversion in the epoxidation of styrene using TBHP as the oxidant. Deposition of trace amount of gold significantly enhances the epoxide selectivity of the catalysts up to 85%. The catalysts have shown excellent reusability.