Catalytic properties of manganese oxide polyhedra with hollow and solid morphologies in toluene removal

Abstract

In order to develop an efficient and active catalyst to degrade the toxic volatile organic compounds, manganese oxide polyhedra with hollow and solid morphologies were synthesized by a convenient hydrothermal route without any surfactants or templates. The catalytic performances of the two manganese oxides were assessed in the oxidation reaction of toluene. Compared with the solid polyhedral manganese oxide, an excellent catalytic activity of the hollow one has been found, resulting from its cavity nature, the high content of active oxygen and the high manganese oxidation state of hollow MnOx. Meanwhile, the probable reaction pathway for toluene oxidation over the hollow polyhedral manganese oxide was initially discussed by means of in situ FTIR.